But the young man was already pouring out fresh yellow beer.

"There," said he. "Now, madame, I am listening. Tell me first
about the earliest attack."

"Now," said Matrena, "we must go to dinner."

Rouletabille looked at her wide-eyed.

"But, madame, what have I just been doing?"

Madame Matrena smiled. All these strangers were alike. Because
they had eaten some hors-d'ceuvres, some zakouskis, they imagined
their host would be satisfied. They did not know how to eat.

"We will go to the dining-room. The general is expecting you.
They are at table."

"I understand I am supposed to know him."

"Yes, you have met in Paris. It is entirely natural that in passing
through St. Petersburg you should make him a visit. You know him
very well indeed, so well that he opens his home to you. Ah, yes,
my step-daughter also " - she flushed a little - " Natacha believes
that her father knows you."

She opened the door of the drawing-room, which they had to cross in
order to reach the dining-room.

From his present position Rouletabille could see all the corners of