"I am due at the St. James's coffee-house," he said. "Will you accompany me?"
"Is that how you dismiss it?" asked Marius unsteadily.
The Earl made a light gesture with his fine hand.
"What is there to dismiss? Are you coming with me?"
"No." Marius paused a moment, then added, "I take my leave; good-night, my lord."
They could no longer distinguish the other's face.
"Good even," said the Earl, and turned his back to gather up his gloves.
Marius, miserable, angry, hot at heart, turned from the room and closed the door fiercely after him.
There was a dim light in the hall and she was there, crouching against the panelling.
Even as he saw her the knowledge that she had been listening stabbed into his blood.