“So I suspected. But I was obliged to wait until I could leave without being noticed.”
“Did you manage it?”
“Yes; Talma was relating a story about Marat and Dumouriez. Interesting as it was, I deprived myself of the pleasure, and here I am.”
“I have just heard a carriage driving away; the person who got in it couldn’t have seen you coming up my private stairs, could he?”
“The person who drove off was myself, the carriage was mine. If that is not seen every one will think I have left.”
Bonaparte breathed freer.
“Well,” said he, “let us hear how you have spent your day.”
“Oh! I haven’t wasted my time, you may be sure.”
“Are we to have a decree or the Council?”
“We drew it up to-day, and I have brought it to you—the rough draft at least—so that you can see if you want anything added or changed.”