"At the time we hardly knew what to say, we were so confused; but her ladyship has invited Michal to the castle."
"And have you been?"
"Not yet, I waited for you. We must go together."
Valentine scratched his head.
"With Count Hommonai I should think nothing of going against a whole host of dog-headed Tartars, but how can I approach the countess? She is such a fine lady, and I am such a stupid blockhead."
But he had to go all the same, and that at once, for scarcely had he had time to change his clothes when the captain's carriage drove up to the door, and a heyduke brought the message that the count and countess wished to speak to Mr. and Mrs. Kalondai.
"Well, I don't know what will be the end of it," stammered Valentine. He was so nervous that he could not even tie his neckerchief properly, and kept on buttoning his coat at one moment a button too high, and at another a button too low, so that he had to begin it all over again.
But he had to go, for the carriage was waiting outside.
Dame Sarah now gave her daughter-in-law another dress to wear, a trifle simpler than the former one, and hung a handsome mantle round her shoulders.
The Countess Hommonai come forward to meet her guests to the very door of the room, and received Michal with great cordiality.