A storm was coming up; already great drops of rain were beginning to fall.

M.Moriaz ran after the count and seized him by the button, saying: "You have saved my life--permit me, at least, to save you from the rain.

Do me the honour to share our dinner; we will have it served in my apartment." Abel strongly resisted this proposition, giving reasons that sounded like mere pretences.

A rumbling of thunder was heard.

M.Moriaz took his man by the arm, and led him in by force.