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But meanwhile the Notary's fair sweetheart, Telimena, was

spreading abroad the gleams of her beauty and of her toilet, from

top to toe of the very latest style. What manner of gown she

wore, and what her coiffure was like, it were vain to write, for

the pen could never express it; only the pencil could portray

those tulles, muslins, laces, cashmeres, pearls and precious

stones-and her rosy cheeks and lively glances!

The Count at once recognised her, and, pale with astonishment,

rose from the table and looked about him for his sword.

"And is it thou!" he cried, "or do my eyes deceive me? Thou? In

my presence? Dost clasp another's hand? O faithless being, O

traitorous soul! And dost thou not hide thy face for shame

beneath the earth? Art thou so unmindful of thy vows so lately

made? Ah, man of easy faith! Why have I worn these ribbons! But

woe to the rival who so contemns me! Only across my body shall he

advance to the altar!"