Mrs. Neligage rose quickly.
"Really," she said, interrupting the speaker, "I must have another cup of tea."
The interruption stopped Mrs. Croydon's remark, and Miss Wentstile did not press for its conclusion.
"Count," the spinster asked, turning to that gentleman, who towered above her tall and lowering, "have you ever fought a duel?"
The Count shrugged his shoulders.
"All Shimbowski ees hommes d'honneur."
She made him a frigid bow.
"I have the honor to bid you good day," she said, with a manner so perfect that the absurdity of the situation vanished.
The Count drew himself up proudly. Then he in his turn bowed profoundly.
"You do eet too much to me honor," he said, with a dignity which was worthy of his family. "Ladies, votre serviteur."