In the Rue Louise the door of Raoul's house opened directly into the kitchen. Madame Martin was sitting patiently by the fire, knitting. She rose and took the violin case and wiped the raindrops from its waterproof covering. Then she hung up Raoul's cloak.
"And Jacques, Monsieur?" she inquired.
"Jacques will be late. He bade me tell you, Julie."
"He is always late!"
"He has to prepare for Mademoiselle Elise, who comes to-morrow."
Raoul went to his room, and in a few moments Julie carried his supper up to him there. Then, with the assurance of an old servant, she stood a moment at the door, with her hands crossed before her.
"The new actress comes from Paris, Monsieur?"
"Yes."
"It will be a good thing."
"A very good thing—for the Théâtre Royal."