V
Early next morning Roma received a visit from the lawyer who conducted the business of her landlord. He was a middle-aged man in pepper-and-salt tweeds, and his manner was brusque and aggressive.
"Sorry to say, Excellency, that I've had a letter from Count Mario at Paris saying that he will require this apartment for his own use. He regrets to be compelled to disturb you, but having frequently apprised you of his intention to live here himself...."
"When does he want to come?" said Roma.
"At Easter."
"That will do. My aunt is ill, but if she is fit to be moved...."
"Thanks! And may I perhaps present...."
A paper in the shape of a bill came from the breast-pocket of the pepper-and-salt tweeds. Roma took it, and, without looking at it, replied:
"You will receive your rent in a day or two."
"Thanks again. I trust I may rely on that. And meantime...."