"Do you mean to insinuate, sir, that a fortune is essential?" asked Frederic, haughtily.
Here the Italian interfered, and smoothed down the Vicomte's asperities.
At this moment a fresh, young voice rose from the lower room, which was crowded, and when the voice ceased there came loud applause.
"That is a charming voice!" said Arthur. "I would like to see this nightingale a little nearer."
"And why not?" asked Talizac.
Fernando wished to oppose this idea, which might disarrange his carefully prepared plans, but the champagne had by this time affected the Vicomte.
"I say," he persisted, angrily, "I do not see any objection. I for one should like to hear the girl sing up here before the adventure."
"The adventure?" repeated Montferrand.
"A little surprise we have arranged for her—that is all."
Arthur looked bewildered, and then exclaimed: