agreed. One appeared to insist as eagerly as the other was bent
upon opposing; and the words, "Mais oui," "Mais non," followed in
quick succession. I know not how it was, but I conceived a most intense
curiosity to learn the subject of the discussion. I felt as if I must
have some share or concern in the matter, and eagerly bent my ear to
hear further. Nor was I wrong. The question argued was, whether or not
the two ladies should appeal to the gallantry of the occupant of the
room to afford them shelter till such time as their carriage might
arrive to fetch them for Paris. She who spoke with more authority was in
favor of the appeal, while the younger voice expressed dissent to it.

Being in a measure a party to the cause, I resolved to lend what
influence I might possess towards the decision; and so, flinging wide
the door, I saluted the strangers courteously, and informing them that I
had accidentally overheard their discussion, begged they would permit
me to decide it by placing my apartment at their disposal at once. The
elder of the two immediately addressed me in a tone and manner that
bespoke a person of condition, accepting my hospitality, but only on
the condition that I myself should remain, for I had made a gesture
indicative of departure. The younger, with a veil closely drawn across
her face, courtesied without speaking. I at once acceded, and placing
chairs for my guests, requested them to be seated.

The waiter at length made his appearance to say dinner was ready
"whenever Monsieur desired it." This was a new difficulty, and I really
felt much embarrassed by it. Resolving, however, to adopt the bold
course, I hastily apologized for the great liberty I was about to take,
and after briefly explaining the departure of the two friends I had
expected, begged they would allow me to believe that Fortune had really
been kind to me for once, in replacing them.

A sign of half-impatience by the younger was speedily corrected by the
other, as she said,--

"Monsieur forgets that we are strangers to each other."

But there was nothing like rebuke in the tone she spoke in; but rather,
as I thought, a suggestive hint thrown out to provoke some effort at
explanation on my part. I was right in this conjecture, as I speedily
saw by the degree of attention she vouchsafed me.

Perhaps if I had had a better cause, I should not have pleaded so
successfully. I mean, that if I had been really the owner of a high name
and