“That is sufficient,” she uttered. “I shall reflect; and to-morrow I shall give you an answer.”
She started to go; but M. de Tregars threw himself quickly between her and the door.
“Excuse me,” he said; “but it is not to-morrow that I want an answer: it is to-night, this instant!”
Ah, if she could have annihilated him with a look.
“Why, this is violence,” she said in a voice which betrayed the incredible effort she was making to control herself.
“It is imposed upon me by circumstances, madame.”
“You would be less exacting, if my husband were here.”
He must have been within hearing; for suddenly the door opened, and he appeared upon the threshold. There are people for whom the unforeseen does not exist, and whom no event can disconcert. Having ventured every thing, they expect every thing. Such was the Baron de Thaller. With a sagacious glance he examined his wife and M. de Tregars; and in a cordial tone,
“We are quarreling here?” he said.
“I am glad you have come!” exclaimed the baroness.