"M. de Saint-Remy?" said the comte, in an abrupt tone.
The porter, instead of replying, scrutinised with impertinent curiosity the white beard, the threadbare frock coat, and the napless hat of the unknown, who held a stout cane in his hand.
"M. de Saint-Remy?" again said the comte, impatiently, and much irritated at the insolent demeanour of the porter.
"M. le Vicomte is not at home."
So saying, the co-mate of M. Pipelet opened the door, and, with a significant gesture, invited the unknown to retire.
"I will wait for him," said the comte, and he moved forward.
"Holloa! Come, I say, my friend, that's not the way people enter other people's houses!" exclaimed the porter, running after the comte, and taking him by the arm.
"What, fellow!" replied the old man, with a threatening air, and lifting his cane, "dare you to lay your hands on me?"
"I dare do more than that if you do not be off quickly. I tell you the vicomte is not within; so now go away, will you?"
At this moment Boyer, attracted by the sound of contending voices, appeared on the steps which led to the house.