"How will you prove it, pray? I am curious to know."
"Oh! it will be an easy matter. I shall simply have to show them this paper."
He took a letter from his pocket.
"I don't dream, myself," he said; "at my age one doesn't dream, even when awake; but I receive letters. Read this one; it's very interesting."
Nanon shuddered as she took the letter the duke handed her, and started when she saw the writing; but the movement was imperceptible, and she read,—
"'Monseigneur le Duc d'Épernon is informed that a man who, for six months past, has been on familiar terms with Mademoiselle Nanon de Lartigues, will visit her this evening, and will remain to supper and to sleep.
"'As I do not desire to leave Monseigneur le Duc d'Épernon in uncertainty, he is informed that his fortunate rival is Monsieur le Baron de Canolles.'"
Nanon turned pale; the blow struck home.
"Ah! Roland! Roland!" she murmured, "I believed myself to be well rid of you."
"Am I well informed?" queried the duke, triumphantly.