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"We must think of a godmother," said the prince, "because

to-morrow the vicar of the nuns will be here for the examination,

and soon after that, Gertrude will be finally accepted. Now the

choice shall come from Gertrude herself, although contrary to

usage; but she deserves to be made an exception, and we may

confidently trust to her judgment in the selection." And then,

turning to her, as if bestowing a singular favour, he continued,

"Any one of the ladies who were at the conversazione this

evening, possesses the necessary qualifications for a godmother;

any one of them will consider it an honour; make your selection."

Gertrude instantly felt that the choice would be a renewal of

consent; but the proposal was made with such an air of

condescension, that a refusal would have appeared to spring from

contempt or ingratitude. Thus she took another step, and named a

lady who had been forward in attentions to her during the whole

evening.