Carlo likewise bent his head to them; it was like bending his knee, for in the younger of the two intruders he recognized Lieutenant Pierson.

The countess accepted a vacated seat; the cavity of her ear accepted the General's apologies.

He informed her that he deeply regretted the intrusion; he was under orders to be present at the opera, and to be as near the stage as possible, the countess's box being designated.

Her face had the unalterable composure of a painted head upon an old canvas.

The General persisted in tendering excuses.