`` Lovers are worse than lunatics to manage , so it is vain to try to get any help from him , '' sighed Helen , adding , as her uncle was gallantly leading his stout divinity away into the garden : `` Amy has a bad headache , and I shall stay to take care of her , so we ca n't join your party to Chillon , sir . We have been there once , so you need n't postpone it for us . '' `` Very well , my dear , '' and the major walked away , looking much relieved . As Helen was about to leave the salon Casimer appeared . A single glance at her face assured him that she knew all , and instantly assuming a confiding , persuasive air that was irresistible , he said , meekly , -- `` Mademoiselle , I do not deserve a word from you , but it desolates me to know that I have grieved the little angel who is too dear to me . For her sake , pardon that I spoke my heart in spite of prudence , and permit me to send her this . '' Helen glanced from the flowers he held to his beseeching face , and her own softened . He looked so penitent and anxious , she had not the heart to reproach him . `` I will forgive you and carry your gift to Amy on one condition , '' she said , gravely . `` Ah , you are kind ! Name , then , the condition . I implore you , and I will agree . '' `` Tell me , then , on your honor as a gentleman , are you not Baron Palsdorf ? '' `` On my honor as a gentleman , I swear to you I am not . '' `` Are you , in truth , what you profess to be ? '' `` I am , in truth , Amy 's lover , your devoted servant , and a most unhappy man , with but a little while to live . Believe this and pity me , dearest Mademoiselle Helène . '' She did pity him , her eyes betrayed that , and her voice was very kind , as she said , -- `` Pardon my doubts . I trust you now , and wish with all my heart that it was possible to make you happy . You know it is not , therefore I am sure you will be wise and generous , and spare Amy further grief by avoiding her for the little time we stay .
Promise me this , XXXXX . ''
Amy Casimer Chillon Helen Helène Mademoiselle Palsdorf air angel lunatics