“Ah, that is true! Then I am your debtor.”
“If you are not too proud to receive it as a present?”
“Oh, most certainly not; on the contrary, I thank you, my dear.—Tell me, my dear Morien, is not this woman an angel?”
At this instant the French ambassador, Marquis Treves, appeared among the numerous guests, whom the baroness stepped quickly forward to welcome, withdrawing with him into the window-niche.
“Welcome, marquis,” she said, quickly, in a low voice, “Have you brought me the promised papers?”
Drawing a sealed packet from his coat-pocket, he handed it to the baroness with a low bow, saying: “I would draw your attention to the fact once more, dear madam, that I have abided by the price named by yourself, in making this sale, although I am still of the opinion that it is below its value.”
“The sum is sufficient for my wants, and I rated its value according as it is taxed.”
“There are a hundred thousand dollars in bills of exchange, payable at the French embassy at any moment,” said the marquis.
“I thank you, sir, for this proof of friendly attention; and as it may be the last time we meet, I would assure you that I shall always remember your many and thoughtful kindnesses.”
“You speak, baroness, as if you would forsake the circle of which you are the brightest ornament.”