The next moment he saw advancing up his shaded avenue two ladies on horseback, followed by a groom with a black cockade.
Though quite amazed at this charming spectacle, Camors remembered his duty as a gentleman and descended the steps of the terrace.

But the two ladies, at sight of him, appeared as surprised as himself, suddenly drew rein and conferred hastily.

Then, recovering, they continued their way, traversed the lower court below the terraces, and disappeared in the direction of the lake.
As they passed the lower balustrade Camors bowed low, and they returned his salutation by a slight inclination; but he was quite sure, in spite of the veils that floated from their riding-hats, that he recognized the black-eyed singer and the young pianist.

After a moment he called to his old steward, "Monsieur Leonard," he said, "is this a public way ?" "It certainly is not a public way, Monsieur le Comte," replied Leonard.
"Then what do these ladies mean by using this road ?" "Bless me, Monsieur le Comte, it is so long since any of the owners have been at Reuilly! These ladies mean no harm by passing through your woods; and sometimes they even stop at the chateau while my wife gives them fresh milk.

Shall I tell them that this displeases Monsieur le Comte ?" "My good Leonard, why the deuce do you suppose it displeases me?
I only asked for information.