Countess Theudelinde Bondavary.
Countess Angela Bondavary.
These names caused a great disturbance in Ivan's mind. What did they want? Why did they come to him? He told the porter to show the ladies in, and then, taking up the cards again, it struck him as odd that the Countess Angela's did not bear the name of her husband.
The door opened, and only one lady entered. She was dressed in mourning, and her face was covered by a thick veil, the thick crape concealing her features. It was the Countess Theudelinde. She had on a long black travelling-cloak with two capes. She came to Ivan and held out to him the finger-tips of her black glove, which he carried to his lips, while she murmured some words of greeting.
"Where is the marquise?" asked Ivan, anxiously.
"She will be here immediately; but it is very difficult to bring her in."
Ivan conducted the lady to a sofa and asked her to be seated.
"Do not go to meet her," continued the countess. "She will find her way. You will receive her kindly, won't you?"
"Oh, countess," Ivan began; but Theudelinde interrupted impatiently.
"No phrases, please. We have not come here for polite words or to exchange compliments. We come to make a request; the answer is simple. Yes or no. Angela wants to remain here."
"Here!" repeated Ivan, horrified.