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"The name of the old man was De Lacey. He was descended from a

good family in France, where he had lived for many years in

affluence, respected by his superiors and beloved by his equals.

His son was bred in the service of his country, and Agatha had

ranked with ladies of the highest distinction. A few months

before my arrival they had lived in a large and luxurious city

called Paris, surrounded by friends and possessed of every

enjoyment which virtue, refinement of intellect, or taste,

accompanied by a moderate fortune, could afford.