"Enough!" said Nanon, imperiously; "let us talk seriously."
"I ask nothing better; only by talking seriously can business be properly transacted."
"You say that the Vicomtesse de Cambes is here?"
"In person."
"And that Monsieur de Canolles is entering the inn at this moment?"
"Not yet; he dismounts and throws his rein to his servant. Ah! he has been seen yonder also. See, the window with the yellow curtains opens, and the viscountess puts out her head. Ah! she gives a little shriek of delight. Monsieur de Canolles darts into the house; get out of sight, little sister, or all will be lost."
Nanon threw herself back, convulsively pressing Cauvignac's hand, as he gazed at her with an air of paternal compassion.
"And I was going to Paris to join him!" cried Nanon. "I risked everything for the sake of seeing him again!"
"Ah! such a sacrifice, little sister, and for an ingrate, into the bargain! Upon my word, you might bestow your favors to better purpose."