I am anxious that your
first impression of me should be a good one, Madam!"
She dropped him a curtsy which was grace itself, her dark eyes
looking straight into his face. Surprise brought a slightly
heightened color to her cheek. Seeing her perturbation, the
unbidden guest hastened to make what amends were possible.
[Illustration: She dropped him a curtsy.]
"You were saying it was a mistake, dear lady. But if so, the
intrusion was on my part. I have wished to meet you quietly, if
such may be your pleasure. I am alone. Opportunity has lacked for
earlier announcement, for I have but reached town this evening."
She looked from one to the other still questioningly. The manager
of the hotel, feeling discretion to be the best card to play,
hurriedly bowed, and hastened away.
The Countess St. Auban hesitated for an instant, but guessed some
errand here worth knowing. Having herself entered the inner room,
with grace she signified that the elderly gentleman should first be
placed; then, seating herself upon a divan somewhat nearer to the
door and hence in shadow, she waited for him to go forward with the
business which had brought him hither.
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