—"Yes, if you are Mlle. Elizabeth Rousset?"
She became uneasy, reflected a moment, then declared squarely:—"That may be, but I shall not go."
There was a movement around her; each discussed and speculated as to the cause of this order. The Count came near her:
—"You are wrong, Madame, because your refusal might bring considerable trouble not only to you but also to all your traveling companions. We should never resist those who are the strongest. Assuredly your compliance with this order cannot involve any danger; no doubt you are wanted for some forgotten formality"—
All joined the Count in urging her, pressing her, lecturing her and finally they convinced her; for all of them dreaded complications which might result from insubordination on her part. At last she said:
—"I am doing this for your sake, don't forget it."
The Countess took her hand:
—"And we thank you for it."—
She went out. All waited for her return before they sat down at the table.
Each was sorry that he had not been called instead of that violent and irascible girl, and prepared mentally the platitudes he would utter in case he should be called in his turn.