Finally, she felt both body and mind a little more free, and looking around, saw that she slept in an excellent bed, between four vast curtains of white satin, with gold fringes. The little man, masked as the Chevalier had been, made her inhale the perfume of a flacon, which seemed to dissipate the clouds over her brain, and replaced the mystery which had enwrapped her with noonday clearness.
"Are you a physician, sir?" said she, with an effort.
"Yes, countess, I have that honor," said he, with a voice which did not seem entirely unknown to her.
"Have I been sick?"
"Somewhat indisposed: you are now much better."
"I feel so, and thank you for your care."
"I am glad, and will not appear again before your ladyship, unless you require my services."
"Am I, then, at the conclusion of my journey?"
"Yes, madame."
"Am I free, or am I a prisoner?"