"Not in the least. I didn't mean that for you. I want you to
stay."

The count took a very elegant watch out of his pocket and looked
at the time. "I must be going to my club," he said. Marguerite
did not answer. The count thereupon left his position by the
fireplace and going up to her, said: "Adieu, madame."

Marguerite rose. "Adieu, my dear count. Are you going already?"

"Yes, I fear I am boring you."

"You are not boring me to-day more than any other day. When shall
I be seeing you?"

"When you permit me."

"Good-bye, then."

It was cruel, you will admit. Fortunately, the count had
excellent manners and was very good-tempered. He merely kissed
Marguerite's hand, which she held out to him carelessly enough,
and, bowing to us, went out.

As he crossed the threshold, he cast a glance at Prudence. She
shrugged her shoulders, as much as to say:

"What do you expect? I have done all I could."

"Nanine!" cried Marguerite. "Light M. le Comte to the door."