Then she held him for an instant at arm's length to feast her eyes upon his face, and then drew him once more towards her.
"You will not leave me, dear sire.

It is so long since you have been here." The sweet face, the pink glow in the room, the hush of the evening, all seemed to join in their sensuous influence.

Louis sank down upon the settee.
"I will stay," said he.
"And that carriage, dear sire, at the east door ?" "I have been very harsh with you, Francoise.

You will forgive me.
Have you paper and pencil, that I may countermand the order ?" "They are here, sire, upon the side table.

I have also a note which, if I may leave you for an instant, I will write in the anteroom." She swept out with triumph in her eyes.