"'Here—from the Countess,' ejaculated Orloff, panting for breath, and handing him the missive. Nicholas hastily tore it open, and read:
"'Dear Nicholas:—Olinska has had an interview with the Admiral, and, from its results, I fear the worst. Have a chaise and four, at the private door of my hotel before sunset to-day. You may trust Orloff.
"'In haste, Walewski.'
"'Shall I engage the conveyance?' asked the dwarf, with a grin.
"'Yes! I will trust you,' replied the excited officer.
"'You will find all in readiness, at the private door, by four o'clock!' said Orloff, and he disappeared as quickly as he came.
"At the appointed hour, Nicholas repaired to the spot where a chaise and its attendants were awaiting him, and right speedily a muffled figure emerged from the private door, and touched his arm.
"'Olinska, dearest Olinska.'
"'Let us hasten, Nicholas, I fear we are betrayed,' answered Olinska, trembling in his arms.