Birbomono appeared, took off his hat, bowed respectfully to the Count, and waited to be addressed.
"Confound it," the young man said to him, "I asked for you an hour or more ago."
"I am in despair at it, Excellency, but I was only told of it this very instant."
"I know, I know. Have you dined?"
"Not yet, Excellency."
"Well then, seat yourself there, opposite to me."
The Major-domo who knew the Count's haughty character, hesitated; he did not at all understand the condescension on his part.
"Sit down, I say," the young man replied; "we are in the country, so it is of no consequence; besides, I want to talk with you."
The Major-domo then took the place pointed out to him, without further pressing.
The meal was short—for the Count ate without uttering a single word; when it was ended, he thrust away his plate, drank a glass of water after the Spanish fashion, lit an excellent cigar and gave another to the Major-domo.