"Oh, thank you, thank you ever so much. It will be just lovely if we can work together. I will do everything you ask me."
After this compact Céleste felt more at ease than she had done for some time previously, for she knew that Riche was a strong man who went to work and did everything calmly, and would not allow himself to be hurried or put out in the least, and that he would carry out religiously whatever he undertook.
The doctor smiled at her impetuosity, and kissing her hand put his fingers to his lips with a wink.
"Allies and silence," said Riche.
"That is agreed," replied Céleste as she walked quietly away towards the drawing-room to join the others.
Céleste now felt herself in the seventh heaven of delight at the thought that she had become a joint partner with so great a man as Dr. Riche, and she accordingly felt herself bursting with pride and importance.
After his companion had left him, Riche remained thoughtful for a moment or two, and then slowly walked to the drawing-room.
"I am quite looking forward to the treat Delapine is going to give us this evening," said Villebois to Riche as the latter joined the group.
"Ah, I am very sorry, mon cher Villebois, to be compelled to disappoint you, but I shall have to postpone the séance until another occasion," said Delapine.
"Oh, professor, what a pity. We shall all be so disappointed, as we were looking forward to the treat. But why have you changed your mind at the last moment?"