"But tell him that it is very urgent, most important."
The servant left Paul in the reception-room, frantic with impatience. At last the man returned, and ushered him into the room where Monsieur Vermoncey was breakfasting.
Albert's father looked up at the young man, who seemed to be profoundly agitated. Paul's interesting and by no means ordinary face prepossessed everybody in his favor; Monsieur Vermoncey addressed him kindly:
"You wish to speak to me, my friend?"
"Yes, monsieur."
"You have a letter for me, I understand?"
"Yes, monsieur."
"Give it to me."
"Oh! pardon me; but I must tell you first under what circumstances it was handed to me."
"Very well, go on. But you seem much excited, my friend; try to be calm. If you have come in behalf of some unfortunate person, I will try to grant his request."