Jeanne did not reply.
“You have some property, even if it be mortgaged? Some family jewels? This, for example,” and he pointed to a box, with which the delicate fingers of the lady had been playing. “A singular box, upon my word! Will you permit me to look? Oh, a portrait!” he continued, with a look of great surprise. “Do you know the original of this portrait?” asked Jeanne.
“It is that of Maria Theresa.”
“Of Maria Theresa?”
“Yes, the Empress of Austria.”
“Really!” cried Jeanne. “Are you sure, monseigneur?”
“Where did you get it?” he asked.
“From a lady who came the day before yesterday.”
“To see you?”
“Yes.”