"Agreed."
"I shall have one second; I believe that one is sufficient, in this country?"
"We are at liberty to have two; but, as you say, one is enough."
"Until to-morrow, then!"
"Until to-morrow, monsieur le comte! and now, I believe that there is nothing further to detain us here."
The Swede bowed with an almost affable expression, and opened the door of the boudoir, pausing to allow Albert to go out first; but he would not. After a contest of politeness, the count finally went first, and they soon reached the foot of the staircase.
The concierge was asleep; before he opened the door, Albert produced a dainty cigar case from his pocket and took out a cigar, saying:
"I am in the habit of smoking every night before I go to bed."
"I am very much annoyed," said the count; "I have forgotten my case, and I also am fond of smoking when I go home at night."
"In that case, allow me to offer you a cigar, monsieur le comte," said Albert, offering the Swede his case. "I am sure you will like them; they are very good indeed."