“If you need me,” said Monsieur Camuzard, “don’t hesitate; I’ll play any small part, or a utility rôle.”
“It’s to be hoped that we shall not need him!” whispered Madame Dufournelle to her husband; “he’s altogether too hideous; he looks like a bird of prey.”
“Hush, Eléonore, I beg you.”
“My dear love, pray go and attend to what you have to do,” said Monsieur Glumeau, looking at his wife. “Our friends will excuse you; they know that the mistress of the house always has orders to give.”
“Do go, dear lady; your charming daughter is here to do the honors, you know.”
“Since you are good enough to excuse me—I have something to attend to.”
“Would you like me to come and help you?” inquired Madame Dufournelle; “dispose of me.”
“Oh, no! you are too kind; I don’t need any help for what I have to do; I will return in a moment.”
And the mistress of the house was once more on the point of leaving the room, when the door opened again to admit two other guests, a gentleman and a lady, both of mature years, who came forward smiling pleasantly at the company.
“Monsieur and Mademoiselle Mangeot!” exclaimed Madame Glumeau, who was obliged to step back as she curtsied, because the newcomers came straight toward her. “How very good of you to come early!”