“But we must discuss the price. It is my duty to protect the interests of Count d’Alligny. The amount which he named is not definite.”
“Then you can arrange that with him,” I said; “and now for the dinner table. That gratin should be delicious.”
My companion evidently took me for a lunatic, but an unexpected ally presented herself in the person of the cook, who, flattered by my compliment, suggested that she set another place. I clapped my hands.
“That’s right, that’s right. Quick, another place! As for my chauffeur he can have his luncheon when we have finished.”
“Your chauffeur?”
“Yes, I left him outside in the automobile. He takes care of the car and I run it. A fine machine, eh?”
* * *
While the table was being set and Mme. Mairieux was being informed of the incident I told M. Mairieux how I had happened to reach the gate with my car. He condescended at last to take me seriously on account of the automobile’s forty horse power. That was the way I lunched for the first time with my future parents-in-law.
Mme. Mairieux immediately took me under her protection, but Raymonde did not address a word to me. For my part, it is true, I paid no attention to the child.
When I was well-fed and nourished and it was time for me to go, I repeated my offer of the cheque for the property. M. Mairieux, however, would not accept it. Instead, he gave me the address of the attorney whom Count d’Alligny had put in charge of the sale.