Madame Zamenoy trudged on, finding that she could get no comfort from her servant, and at last reached Balatka's door.

Lotta, who was familiar with the place, entered the house first, and her mistress followed her.

Hanging about the broad passage which communicated with all the rooms on the ground-floor, they found Souchey, who told them that his master was in bed, and that Nina was at work by his bedside.

He was sent in to announce the grand arrival, and when Madame Zamenoy entered the sitting-room Nina was there to meet her.
"Child," she said, "I have come to see your father." "Father is in bed, but you can come in," said Nina.
"Of course I can go in," said Madame Zamenoy, "but before I go in let me know this.

Has he heard of the disgrace which you purpose to bring upon him ?" Nina drew herself up and made no answer; whereupon Lotta spoke.