Norvin found Vittoria's eyes upon him, and saw that beneath her self-possession she was intensely embarrassed. Evidently there was nothing to do now but accept the situation and put an end to the painful scene at any sacrifice. Once inside, he could perhaps set himself right; but for the present no explanations were possible. He might have braved the Board of Health, but he could not run away from Papa La Branche's accusing eye. Bowing gravely, he said:
"You are quite right, sir, and I thank you for your hospitality. If you will lead the way, I will follow."
The two culprits entered the big, empty kitchen, then followed the rotund little figure which waddled ahead of them into the front part of the house.
XVII
AN OBLIGATION IS MET
Montegut La Branche paused in the front hall at the foot of the stairs.
"It is late" he said; "no doubt Mademoiselle wishes to retire."
"I would like to offer a word of explanation," Norvin ventured, but
Vittoria interposed, quietly:
"Mr. La Branche is right—explanations are unnecessary." Bowing graciously to them both, she mounted the stairs into the gloom above, followed by the old Creole's polite voice:
"A pleasant sleep, Mademoiselle, and happy dreams." Leading the way into the library, he placed the lamp upon a table, then, turning to his unbidden guest, inquired, coldly, "Well?"