"It is one of my rich clients; but I have orders not to reveal her name unless her offer is accepted."
The unanimity with which all hands were raised did not even give time to put the question.
"Her name?" demanded the Duchess.
"Here it is," replied the notary, handing her a visiting card.
"'Valentine de Vermont,'" she read aloud.
"Zibeline?" cried Madame de Nointel. "Bravo! I offer her the assurance of my esteem!"
"And I also," added Madame de Lisieux.
"I can not offer mine," said Madame Desvanneaux, dryly. "A young woman who is received nowhere!"
"So generous an act should open all doors to her, beginning with mine," said the Duchesse de Montgeron. "I beg that you will tell her so from me, Monsieur Durand."
"At once, Madame. She is waiting below in her carriage."