“True; I will undertake to provide a nice cabriolet; I know a liveryman. At what time shall we start?”
“At seven o’clock; we shall arrive at eight, which is the proper hour in the country.”
“That’s settled, then. I fancy we shall have some fun; I know the whole party, so I can tell you who’s who.”
“I thought you had been only twice to Madame de Marsan’s.”
“Oh! that doesn’t make any difference! once is enough for me to know everybody; I have a certain amount of tact, of penetration—it’s all a matter of habit. In case they should want to give a theatrical performance, I have an opera that I have just finished; I’ll read it to you on the road.”
“That will give me great pleasure.”
“I must take a look over it. Until Thursday, neighbor!”
“Until Thursday!”
Raymond left me, and I went to see Caroline. I found her at the window. For several days past she had spent much time there, especially when she was alone. Doubtless it was so that she could watch for my coming. It seemed to me that she was gayer, more amiable, more fascinating, than usual; pleasure gleamed in her eyes.
“Ah! she loves me,” I thought; “she loves me truly; she is grateful, she has a feeling heart; she is coquettish only to please me. Before forming a lasting attachment, she wanted to find someone worthy of her love; her heart chose me, and I am sure that she will be true to me. I knew that, with a little patience, I should find such a woman.”