"And Monsieur de St. Gre!" I asked.
At the sound of my voice he started and gave back, for he had not
perceived me. He recovered his balance, such as it was, instantly.
"Monsieur seems to take an extraordinary interest in my affairs," he said
jauntily.
"Only when they are to the detriment of other persons who are my
friends," I said.
"Monsieur has intruded in a family matter," said Auguste, grandly, still
in French.
"By invitation of those most concerned, Monsieur," I answered, for I
could have throttled him.
Auguste had developed. He had learned well that effrontery is often the
best weapon of an adventurer. He turned from me disdainfully,
petulantly, and addressed the Vicomtesse once more.
"I wish to be alone with Antoinette," he said.
"No doubt," said the Vicomtesse.
"I demand it," said Auguste.
"The demand is not granted," said the Vicomtesse; "that is why we have
come. Your sister has already made enough sacrifices for you. I know
you, Monsieur Auguste de St. Gre," she continued with quiet contempt.
"It is not for love of Antoinette that you have sought this meeting. It
is because," she said, riding down a torrent of words which began to
escape from him, "it is because you are in a predicament, as usual, and
you need money."
It was Antoinette who spoke. She had risen, and was standing behind
Auguste.
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