The man advanced, and, feeling in a bag suspended at his side, he said,—
"Monsieur Dalize, I believe?"
"Yes, my friend."
"Well, here is a telegram for you which arrived at Sens last night."
"A telegram?" said Monsieur Dalize, knitting his brows, his eyes showing that he was slightly surprised, and almost displeased, as if he had learned that unexpected news was more often bad news than good. Nevertheless, he took the paper, unfolded it, and looked at once at the signature.
"Ah, from Roger," he said to himself.
And then he began to read the few lines of the telegram. As he read, his face brightened, surprise followed uneasiness, and then a great joy took the place of discontent. He said to the man,—
"You can carry back an answer, can you not?"
"Yes, sir."
"Well, Peter, bring me pen and ink at once."