"I entered into no particulars."
"I entreat you, Monsieur, not to tell him the little history. There will be a scandal; he is so quick to misconceive."
"I will endeavour to observe Madame's wishes."
"It is like a little romance, is it not, Monsieur? Perhaps I should explain myself a little further. That night"--she emphasized the that--"I left my husband. In effect, he had become unbearable. I have seen and heard nothing of him since. But I am beginning to become conscious of a desire to meet with him again. I know not why! I suppose, when one loves one's husband truly, one wishes to meet him--once a year. I do not wish our reconciliation to be inaugurated by a quarrel--no, I entreat you, Monsieur, not recount to him that little history."
"I should inform Madame that I expect the Vicomte d'Humières to return."
"Return? Where? Here? When?"
"Very shortly--with a friend. In fact, unless I am mistaken, he comes already."
The lady listened.
"It is Philippe's voice! Mon Dieu! He must not find me here."
"But, Madame----"