The Count hardly noticed her absence, as he had still Norbert at his mercy.
"Reverting again to Mademoiselle Diana," said he: "she looks charming in black, for women should look upon a death in the family as a most fortunate occurrence; but I ought not to be praising her to you, who are so well acquainted with her." "I ?" exclaimed Norbert.
"Yes, you.

I do not suppose that you intend to deny that you have had a little flirtation with her ?" "I do not understand you." "Well, _I_ do then, my boy; I heard all about your making love to her.
Why, you are really blushing! What is up now ?" "I can assure you----" De Puymandour burst into a loud laugh.
"I have heard a good deal of your little country walks, and all the pretty things that you used to say to each other." In vain did Norbert deny the whole thing, for his intended father-in-law would not believe him; and at last he got so annoyed that he refused to remain and dine with the Count, alleging anxiety for his father as an excuse.

He returned home as soon as he possibly could, much agitated by what he had heard; and as he was walking rapidly on, he heard his name called by some one who was running after him: Norbert turned round, and found himself face to face with Montlouis.
"I have been here a week," said the young man.

"I am here with my patron, for I have one now.

I am now with the Viscount de Mussidan, as his private secretary.