The Countess smiled.
'Enough for to-day,' said she, 'cela viendra. Frances is so beautiful that it is impossible not to worship her, but she is proud and high-spirited like a goddess. If our old King were living, I should fear for her, for she could make an impression even on him.'
Brühl, having made some further remark, left her with a sweet smile. When he entered his post-chaise, waiting for him at the door, his face became gloomy.
'I should like to know,' said he to himself, 'whom she loves. She had always so many admirers, and was so sweet to them all, that it is impossible to guess who succeeded in winning her heart, but her beauty is necessary to me. Who knows! The Prince may not always be faithful to his wife,--and in that case--'
He finished his thought with a smile.
'She may not love me, but our common interests will make us friends. Then they know about Moszynski; it is difficult to conceal love.'
Drowned in his thoughts, Brühl did not notice that his post-chaise had stopped before the door of his house.
Numerous servants waited for him. The moment he alighted his face was sweetly smiling.
He ran upstairs. Henniche was waiting for him. The faithful servant looked better and more healthy than usual. His face was smiling ironically. Brühl entered the office, where he found Globig, Hammer, and Loss. All rose to greet his Excellency, followed by Henniche.
The secretary was ready to look through some papers, when Henniche whispered.