"Oh, stay close by me, I entreat you. Do not leave me. Oh, my God, what a solemn moment this is!"
"Hush! Olivier is speaking," whispered M. de Maillefort; "let us listen. We must not miss a word."
And all three listened, with breathless anxiety, to the following conversation between Olivier and M. de la Rochaiguë.
CHAPTER XXVI.
A CRUCIAL MOMENT.
When Olivier Raymond entered M. de la Rochaiguë's study, his face expressed astonishment, mingled with a lively curiosity.
The baron bowed courteously, and, after having motioned his visitor to a seat, inquired:
"Is it to M. Olivier Raymond that I have the honour of speaking?"
"Yes, monsieur."
"A second lieutenant in the Third Hussars?"
"The same, monsieur."