"I am surprised to see you here to-night," said he, "for my friend M. le Baron von Lichtenberg told me he was to dine with you."
"He told you wrong."
"Ah! just so. I thought there was some mistake; he would scarcely be dining with you after the affair at the Mirlitons."
"M. de Coigny," I replied, "I know of nothing that gives you the warrant to introduce yourself into my private affairs. I dine where I choose, do what I please; and should anyone question my actions they do so at their own peril."
Then I turned on my heel and left the café with my friend.
"Another man would send you his seconds in reply to that," said my friend.
"And why not De Coigny?"
"Oh, he is a coward. But he is also a bad man. Be on your guard, for he will try to do you an evil turn."
I laughed, and told him of the occurrence when, years ago, I had made De Coigny's nose to bleed in the gardens of the Hôtel de Morny.
"All the same," replied he, "be on your guard."