"I—I—" stammered the countess, in confusion; "what do you look at me for?"
A smile flitted across Louison's lips, but she kept silent, and Irene thanked God, as Madame Ursula now came in and softly said:
"Irene, a word."
"What is the matter?" asked the countess, hastily.
"There is a man outside who would like to speak to you."
"His name?"
"Bobichel—"
"Bobichel? Ah! bring him in the next room directly!"
Madame Ursula nodded and disappeared, while Irene turned to Louison and said in explanation:
"Excuse me a moment; I will not leave you long alone."