Not thinking that he was watched, Serge had gone across to Jeanne, and affecting a smile, inquired:
“What is the matter?”
“Serious news.” And she explained that she must speak to her lover that evening.
“Where?” Serge asked, with astonishment.
“Here,” answered Jeanne.
“But your husband?” the Prince said.
“Is leaving in an hour. Our guests will not remain late. Go to the garden, and wait in the pavilion. The door of the back stairs leading to my dressing-room will be open. When everybody has gone, come up.”
“Take care; we are observed,” said Serge, uneasily.
And they began to laugh with affectation and talked aloud about frivolous things, as if nothing serious were occupying their thoughts. Cayrol had come back again. He went up to Madame Desvarennes, who was talking with her daughter, and, full of business, thoughtlessly said:
“I will telegraph you as soon as I reach London.”