As soon as he had finished with the others, he went up to De Guiche.

They both exchanged the most courteous compliments, after which De Wardes returned to Monsieur and to the other gentlemen.

In the midst of these congratulations Madame was announced.

She had been informed of De Wardes' arrival, and knowing all the details of his voyage and of his duel, she was not sorry to be present at the remarks she knew would be made, without delay, by one who, she felt assured, was her personal enemy.

Two or three of her ladies accompanied her.