way across a thousand thresholds, of Arab tent and imperial palace
alike. The lives of millions were affected by it, the secret hopes
of thousands were undermined by it. It disturbed the sleep of half
the world, and made men old before their time.

"More troops must have arrived," said Desiree, already busying
herself to set the house in order, "since they have been forced to
billet this man with us. And now they have sent for Charles, though
he is really on leave of absence."

She glanced at the clock.

"I hope he will not be late. The chaise is to come at four o'clock.
There is still time for me to help you."

Mathilde made no answer. Their father stood near the window. He
was looking out with thoughtful eyes. His face was drawn downwards
by a hundred fine wrinkles. It was the face of one brooding over a
sorrow or a vengeance. There was something in his whole being
suggestive of a bygone prosperity. This was a lean man who had once
been well-seeming.

"No!" said Desiree gaily, "we were a dull company. We need not
disguise it. It all came from that man crossing our path in his
dusty carriage."

"He is on his way to Russia," Sebastian said jerkily. "God spare me
to see him return!"

Desiree and Mathilde exchanged a glance of uneasiness. It seemed