At first the countess had been struck dumb and motionless. Recovering herself, however, after a moment or two, she went hastily up to the person who seemed to direct the proceedings, and accosted him:
"Will you oblige me by saying who ordered all this furniture?"
"Her ladyship, the Countess de Canossa," was the man's reply.
"Are you acquainted with the countess?" asked Lucretia.
"No, madame; I have not that honor."
"Then, how do you know that you are acting by her orders?"
"I received them yesterday through her steward."
"Her steward? And have you seen him since?"
"Yes, madame. He came again this morning very early, to see whether we were punctual. It was all to be completed by one o'clock, and, as it is not quite ten, you perceive that we will certainly have done in time. But I must ask you to see the countess and request permission for the workmen to be admitted to her boudoir. Will you be so good as to convey the message?"
Lucretia cast a glance of shame at her faded gown. "He does not know me," thought she, "and how should he in such a guise?" Then she added, aloud, "I will apprise the countess."