"On what success?" she asked.
"On your success as an actress and a singer. I consider you owe me some thanks."
"Truly," said Leone, "I owe you some thanks."
The countess did not quite like the tone of voice in which those words were uttered; but it was her policy to be amiable.
"Your genius has taken me by surprise," she said; "yet, when I recall the only interview I ever had with you, I recognize the dramatic talent you displayed."
"I should think the less you say of that interview, the better," said Leone; "it was not much to your ladyship's credit."
Lady Lanswell smiled.
"We will not speak of it," she said. "But you do not ask me to sit down. Madame Vanira, what a charming house you have here."
With grave courtesy Leone drew a chair near the window, and the countess sat down. She looked at the beautiful woman with a winning smile.
"Will you not be seated, madame?" she said. "I find it so much easier to talk when one is seated."