The next day after the remarkable conversation between the General and Payot, Renée was busy writing in her boudoir, when she heard a knock at the door.
A servant entered bearing a note which ran as follows:—
My dear Renée,
I should be very much obliged if you would come and see me at my house. I have some important news for you. I shall expect you at five o'clock.
Your affectionate father,
Alexandre.
Renée turned the letter over to see whether it contained any news on the other side.
"I wonder what my father wants me for in such a hurry. Did he leave any message?" she enquired of the servant.
"No, madame. He merely told me to deliver this note, and to let him know if the time would be convenient."
"Tell my father I shall be with him at five o'clock this evening, and let the coachman know that he is to be here punctually at a quarter to the hour, as my father cannot bear to be kept waiting."
The maid bowed and retired, wondering in her mind what could have given rise to her icy reply.