In a species of rage he determined to try the ground and bow openly to the countess.

She returned the bow with one of those slight inclinations of the head with which women take from their adorers all desire to continue their attempt.

Comte Felix turned round to see who had bowed to his wife; he saw Nathan, but did not bow, and seemed to inquire the meaning of such audacity; then he turned back slowly and said a few words to his wife.

Evidently the door of that box was closed to Nathan, who cast a terrible look of hatred upon Felix.
Madame d'Espard had seen the whole thing from her box, which was just above where Raoul was standing.

She raised her voice in crying bravo to some singer, which caused Nathan to look up to her; he bowed and received in return a gracious smile which seemed to say:-- "If they won't admit you there come here to me." Raoul obeyed the silent summons and went to her box.