A clear blast from the valley instantly echoed to his summons, and the next moment a group of men and dogs were seen hurrying up the slope.
"Farewell, my friends," said the Countess; "farewell, Père Jacques! M. le Curé, you will return and dine with us?"
"Madame, I thank you; but—but this is a fast-day with me."
"Well, to-morrow. You will come to-morrow? I will sing you some of those old songs you are so fond of! Say yes, M. le Curé."
"Madame la Comtesse will graciously excuse me. I must catechise the children of the district to-morrow."
"But my brother returns to-morrow to his regiment—you will come to bid him farewell?"
"Monsieur de Pradines has already accepted my good wishes and compliments."
"The day after to-morrow, then, M. le Curé?"
"Madame, I will endeavour."
"But you promise nothing. Ah, monsieur, for some time past you have been very sparing of your visits. Have I offended you that you will no longer honour me with your company?"