Fanchon; The Cricket (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1863. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... CHAPTER XIII. Landrt was at first vexed to find Fanchon thus Constantly crossing his path; but, as she appeared to be in trouble, he took compassion upon her, and the following conversation passed between them: "Why, cricket, is it you who are crying so bitterly? Has any one molested you anew, that you weep thus, and have come hither to conceal yourself?" "No, Landry; no one has interfered with me since you so bravely defended me; besides, I fear nothing. I hid myself on purpose to cry, for there is nothing so foolish as to expose one's sorrow to indifferent persons." "But why are you so greatly distressed? Is it because of the tricks played upon you to-day? You were not altogether free from blame yourself; but I must try and console you, instead of remonstrating with you further." "What makes you say, Landry, that I was to blame? Was my wish to dance with you an offence? And why am I the only girl who has not the right to amuse herself- like others of her age?" "It is not that, Fanchon. I do not reproach you for having wished to dance with me. I complied with that wish, and I hope I acquitted myself toward you as I ought. Your fault, if you have committed one, is of older date than to-day, and is not against me, but against yourself, as you must well know." "No, Landry, as true as there is a heaven above us, I do not know what fault you mean. I have never given a thought to myself, and if now I see cause for reproach, it is for having been the unintentional source of vexation and annoyance to you." "Do not heed me, Fanchon; I have no complaint to make. Let us speak of yourself; and, since you are unconscious of your faults, will you allow me, in good faith and friendship, to tell you what they are?" "Certainly, Landry; and I shall esteem your so doing a...