My painful astonishment was at its height; for a moment I deluded myself, and endeavoured to attribute to jealousy this reception so different from what I had anticipated, but I repeat, Madame de Fersen's countenance betrayed no sign of repressed or concealed emotion.
I resolutely took my stand. I could not answer Madame de Fersen's question without reminding her of my noble and generous conduct towards her; and unwilling to lower myself by uttering reproaches, I was silent on that subject, and only said to her, endeavouring to conceal my emotion:
"The object of the interview you requested is doubtless attained. May I ask, madame, if you have any further orders to give me?"
"None, monsieur, but I again wish to express my grateful acknowledgments," said Madame de Fersen, rising.
This harshness shocked me. I was about to answer with some bitterness, when I became aware of something which I had not yet remarked, and which renewed a faint hope.
During our short interview, Madame de Fersen had not once raised her eyes from the embroidery upon which she was working.
Wishing to assure myself of the correctness of my observation, I stayed on some moments without uttering a word.
Catherine remained with her eyes lowered, instead of inquiring by a look the meaning of my silent presence.
"Adieu, madame," I said.
"Adieu, monsieur."