"It is true, indeed; we are distantly related. I remember that in happier days I had the pleasure of receiving him in Courland."
"As for Monsieur Meyrin, I think I know where to find him. But what if he should ask us for explanations?"
"I hope he will understand with half a word. If he does not, you may tell him I will hesitate at no provocation, no matter what scandal may follow upon it. This man, in the past, has done me the deepest outrage possible; it has suited me to wait until now before demanding reparation from him, that is all."
"I understand."
"Thank you once more, dear count. I shall see you again soon, shall I not?"
"As soon as I have seen Zamoieff and we have been to Monsieur Meyrin's, who lives near the Pia Gate, I take it. If you will go back to the Minerva we will join you there as soon as our mission is fulfilled."
"Yes, I will go back to the hotel. Good-bye for a short time."
In less than two hours' time, at the Minerva, a footman announced to Prince Olsdorf the two visitors he was expecting.
Pierre went forward quickly to meet them, offering his hand to Baron Zamoieff, and thanking him for kindly acting as his other second.
The Russian noblemen responded cordially to the grasp of his hand, and the first secretary spoke at once.