As soon as he had breakfasted, he went down to the Opera to engage one of the boxes hidden by the curtain. It was promised to him. Then he hastened to the Guilleroys'.
The Countess appeared almost immediately, apparently still a little moved by their tender interview of the day before.
“How kind of you to come again to-day!” said she.
“I am bringing you something,” he faltered.
“What is it?”
“A stage-box at the Opera for the single performance of Helsson and Montrose.”
“Oh, my friend, what a pity! And my mourning?”
“Your mourning has lasted for almost four months.”
“I assure you that I cannot.”
“And Annette? Remember that she may never have such an opportunity again.”