She was not one to beat about the bush when once her mind was made up.
"You come, no doubt, sir, to receive an answer to the request you addressed to me before your departure for England!" The Prince turned slightly pale.

The words which Madame Desvarennes was about to pronounce were of such importance to him that he could not help feeling moved.

He answered, in a suppressed tone: "I would not have dared to speak to you on the subject, Madame, especially in public; but since you anticipate my desire, I admit I am waiting with deep anxiety for one word from you which will decide my fate." He continued bent before Madame Desvarennes like a culprit before his judge.

The mistress was silent for a moment, as if hesitating before answering, and then said, gravely: "That word I hesitated to pronounce, but some one in whom I have great confidence has advised me to receive you favorably." "He, Madame, whoever he may be, has gained my everlasting gratitude." "Show it to him," said Madame Desvarennes; "he is the companion of Micheline's young days, almost a son to me." And turning toward Pierre, she pointed him out to Panine.
Serge took three rapid strides toward Pierre, but quick as he had been Micheline was before him.

Each of the lovers seized a hand of Pierre, and pressed it with tender effusion.