"She impresses me," said the woman, "as a mirage of that Orient which I have never seen, and for which I long and dream as for one's native land. Italy is very beautiful!"
During this conversation the Jew noticed that he was the object of his companions' curiosity. He hesitated to make his adieux, and separate himself from them. The husband, always polite, relieved him from this embarrassment.
"Will you not come with us?" asked he, politely.
"Willingly, but permit me to take leave of my companions."
He called Ivas and charged him to make his excuses to the company, at the same time begging him to wait for him; then went away with his acquaintances.
"Ah!" cried the Italian on learning from Ivas that he had been requested to wait for his friend, "I also am willing to wait a long time to find out who this lady is. I am anxious to hear this marvellous singer again. Where are you staying?" said she to the Pole.
"At the Hotel Féder."
"That is fortunate. You are very near me. I am at the Hotel de France. Wait for your companion, and bring him to me, willingly or by force, to drink tea. I will not fix the hour, for so active is my curiosity about this woman that I cannot sleep until I have seen you."
She turned to the rest of the company. "Messieurs," said she, "will you also accept my invitation?"
They all bowed their acceptance, and Lucie took the Russian's arm, with whom she departed, chatting vivaciously.