"It is impossible," she said.

"You know my wishes very well." "But, my dear Countess, have you noted this name ?" began the manager.
"Of course, I know it.

All the more reason there should be mistake." "But I assure you, my dear Countess--" A step sounded near by, and the curtains swung back, disclosing the entrance to one of the adjoining parlors of the hotel.

The figure of a well-built and hale gentleman, past middle age, of dignified carriage and pleasant features, was revealed.

Half hesitating, he advanced.
"My dear lady," he began, in a deep and melodious voice, "I come to you doubly handicapped, both as intruder and eavesdropper.