The marquis looked down at her.

She said nothing for some moments, but she kept her keen, clear eyes upon Newman, bravely.

The marquis drew himself up and looked at the ceiling.

"It's impossible!" he said softly.
"It's improper," said Madame de Bellegarde.
Newman began to laugh.

"Oh, you are fooling!" he exclaimed.
"My sister, you have no time; you are losing your train," said the marquis.
"Come, is he mad ?" asked Newman.
"No; don't think that," said Madame de Cintre.