"I know a young artist," said Albert Styvens, "who plays with her whole soul, and I, who really love music, find her far ahead of all your prodigies."
Almost a sensation was produced among the guests.
The Countess said with her sweet smile, "I see that they tease you here as well as at Brussels."
"That does not affect me, mother, you see; I remain faithful to my ideal."
"Never mind, tell us the name of this new discovery."
"Her name is Esperance Darbois," said Albert rising, resting his two hands on the table. Then, having produced his effect, he sat down again.
"What! she is a good musician too?"
"Excellent," replied Albert, "and I will wager that whoever hears her will agree with me.
"How is it possible to hear her? She does not play at the concerts.
But tell us how did you contrive to hear her?" demanded the Princess.
"I study with her father, François Darbois, so I have become a friend of the family. They asked me to dinner once, and I was early enough to hear Mlle. Esperance play. After dinner we played a very difficult duet together. She had absolute command of her execution and her emotion."