And as he spoke, he stepped towards a small cabinet, and took from it a curiously-shaped bottle and a goblet.
"Taste this wine—it has been long in our family," he added, filling the cup.
"It is a strange, bewildering drink," cried Auriol, setting down the empty goblet, and passing his hand before his eyes.
"You have taken it upon an empty stomach—that is all," said Rougemont. "You will be better anon."
"I feel as if I were going mad," cried Auriol. "It is some damnable potion you have given me."
"Ha! ha!" laughed Rougemont. "It reminds you of the elixir you once quaffed—eh?"
"A truce to this raillery!" cried Auriol angrily. "I have said I am in no mood to bear it."
"Pshaw! I mean no offence," rejoined the other, changing his manner. "What think you of this house?"
"That it is magnificent," replied Auriol, gazing around. "I envy you its possession."
"It shall be yours, if you please," replied Rougemont.