“No, no, madam, you are mistaken,” she cried in a low voice. “I wish to—I must see you.”
Valentina’s eyes dilated a little, and she looked wonderingly at the speaker.
“I—I have a message for you. I must speak to you. Take me to your room, for Heaven’s sake.”
A policeman was approaching, and the butler stepped out, saying significantly—
“Shall I speak to the young person, my lady?” No answer was vouchsafed, for just then Cornel caught the Contessa by the arm and whispered—
“You must see me, madam. It is life or death to one you know—one whom, I believe, you would not injure.”
“Hush! Who cure you?”
“A stranger from a distant land, madam.” Valentina started, and the rich blood flushed to her cheeks.
“I landed from America yesterday. Pray hear me. Your future depends upon it, and—perhaps—my life.”
The Contessa made a sign to Cornel to follow, and entered the door; and a minute after, as Pacey passed slowly by, he ground his teeth when he heard the coachman say to the footman, who was crossing the pavement with a shawl over one arm, and a basket containing a carriage clock, scent bottle, card case, and Court Guide—