XXVIII
He called for Madame Zattiany at ten o'clock. This time she was standing in the hall as the man opened the door, and she came out immediately. A lace scarf almost concealed her face.
"I didn't order the car," she said. "It is such a fine night, and she lives so near. Do you mind?"
"I much prefer to walk, but your slippers——"
"They are dark and the heels not too high."
"I'm not going to make the slightest preliminary attempt at indifference tonight, nor wait for one of your leads. How long do you intend to stay at this party?"
"Oh, an hour, possibly. One must not be rude." Her own tones were not even, but he could not see her face.
"But you'll keep your word and tell me everything tonight?"
She gave a deep sigh. "Yes, I'll keep my word. No more now—please!… Tell me, what do they do at these parties besides talk—dance?"