‘Thanks to your exertions, Claude,’ said the Marquis. ‘You acted like a hero.’
‘Like a dancing dervish you mean,’ said Claude. ‘It will suffice for my whole life.’
‘I hope you are not quite exhausted.’
‘No, thank you. I have turned over a new leaf.’
‘Talking of new leaves,’ said the Marquis, ‘I always had a presentiment that Emily’s government would come to a crisis to-day.’
‘Do you think it has?’ said Claude.
‘Trust my word, you will hear great news to-morrow. And that reminds me—can you come here to-morrow morning? Travers is going—I drive him to meet the coach at the town, and you were talking of wanting to see the new windows in the cathedral: it will be a good opportunity. And dine here afterwards to talk over the adventures.’
‘Thank you—that last I cannot do. The Baron was saying it would be the first time of having us all together.’
‘Very well, besides the great news. I wish I was going back with you; it is a tame conclusion, only to go to bed. If I was but to be on the scene of action to-morrow. Tell the Baron that—no, use your influence to get me invited to dinner on Saturday—I really want to speak to him.’
‘Very well,’ said Claude, ‘I’ll do my best. Good-night.’