Marechal was not far off.

He arrived in a moment, and springing toward Pierre put his arms round his neck.

When Madame Desvarennes saw the two friends fully engrossed with each other, she said to Marechal: "I give you leave until this evening.

Then bring Pierre back with you; I wish to see him after dinner." And with a firm step she went toward Micheline's room, where the latter was waiting in fear to know the result of the interview..