"
"Agreed," replied the baron. And, opening the door, he passed
into the dining-room, with his right hand cordially extended, and
saying, in his most genial tones: "Excuse me, my dear friend, for
keeping you waiting. I received your letter this morning, and I
was expecting you, but some unexpected business required my
attention just now. Are you quite well?"
As the baron entered the room, the marquis had stepped quickly
forward to meet him. Either he was inspired with fresh hope, or
else he had wonderful powers of self-control, for never had he
looked more calm--never had his face evinced haughtier
indifference, more complete satisfaction with himself, and greater
contempt for others. He was dressed with even more than usual
care, and in perfect taste as well; moreover, his valet had
surpassed himself in dressing his hair--for one would have sworn
that his locks were still luxuriant. If he experienced any secret
anxiety, it only showed itself in a slightly increased stiffness
of his right leg--the limb broken in hunting. "I ought rather to
inquire concerning your own health," he remarked. "You seem
greatly disturbed; your cravat is untied." And, pointing to the
broken china scattered about the floor, he added: "On seeing this,
I asked myself if an accident had not happened."
"The baroness was taken suddenly ill at the breakfast table.
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