"Any attempt to find out would mean an inquiry; and that would involve more noise and fuss about me, examinations, fatigue; and I am worn out as it is."
The prince did not insist. Bowing to her, he asked:
"Will you allow me to call and ask how you are?"
"Oh, certainly. . . ."
She kissed Geneviève and went indoors.
Meantime, night was beginning to fall. Sernine would not let Geneviève return alone. But they had hardly entered the path, when a figure, standing out against the shadow, hastened toward them.
"Grandmother!" cried Geneviève.
She threw herself into the arms of an old woman, who covered her with kisses:
"Oh, my darling, my darling, what has happened? How late you are! . . . And you are always so punctual!"
Geneviève introduced the prince: