"And you are anxious he should not know that you and your daughter see each other."
"I am not so anxious," she said. "I have faith in Natalushka: I can perceive her courage. But perhaps it would be better."
"Very well. Then come to these other rooms I have got for you; they are in a more secluded neighborhood."
"Very well, monsieur. I have but few things with me. I will be ready soon."
In less than half an hour after that the French landlady was receiving her new guest; and so eager was she to show to the English gentleman her gratitude for his substantial presents, that her officious kindness was almost burdensome.
"I thank you," said the new-comer, with a smile, as the landlady brought her a cushion for her back the moment she sat down in the easy chair, "but I am not yet an invalid."
Then would madame have some tea? Or perhaps madame
had not dined? There was little in the house; but something could be prepared at once; from to-morrow morning madame's instructions would be fulfilled to the letter. To get rid of her, Brand informed her that madame had not dined, and would be glad to have anything that happened to be in the house. Then she left, and he was about to leave also.
"No," said the beautiful mother to him, with a smile on the pale face. "Sit down; I have something to say to you."
He sat down, his hat still in his hand.