One of these gentlemen asked me to follow him.

He led me up a spacious staircase, wide enough for a carriage to ascend, preceded me along an extensive picture gallery, guided me across vast apartments, the furniture of which was fading under its coverings, and finally delivered me into the hands of M.Albert's valet.

That is the name by which Madame Gerdy's son is known, that is to say, my name." "I understand, I understand." "I had passed an inspection; now I had to undergo an examination.

The valet desired to be informed who I was, whence I came, what was my profession, what I wanted and all the rest.

I answered simply, that, quite unknown to the viscount, I desired five minutes' conversation with him on a matter of importance.