familiarise itself with the idea of a coming change. There
is a great deal in not taking the world by surprise. Being expected, I
shall not have the air of an intruder on presenting myself. Absent,
I shall have the advantages which the unknown always possess; I shall
obtain the good opinion of all those who have envied Albert; and I
shall secure as champions all those who would to-morrow assail me, if
my elevation came suddenly upon them. Besides, by this delay, I shall
accustom myself to my abrupt change of fortune. I ought not to bring
into your world, which is now mine, the manners of a parvenu. My name
ought not to inconvenience me, like a badly fitting coat."

"Perhaps it would be wisest," murmured the count.

This assent, so easily obtained, surprised Noel. He got the idea that
the count had only wished to prove him, to tempt him. In any case,
whether he had triumphed by his eloquence, or whether he had simply
shunned a trap, he had succeeded. His confidence increased; he recovered
all his former assurance.

"I must add, sir," he continued, "that there are a few matters
concerning myself which demand my attention. Before entering upon my new
life, I must think of those I am leaving behind me. I have friends and
clients. This event has surprised me, just as I am beginning to reap the
reward of ten years of hard work and perseverance. I have as yet only
sown; I am on the point of reaping. My name is already known; I have
obtained some little influence. I confess, without shame, that I have
heretofore professed ideas and opinions that would not be suited to this
house; and it is impossible in the space of a day--"

"Ah!" interrupted the count in a bantering tone, "you are a liberal. It
is a fashionable disease. Albert also was a great liberal."

"My ideas, sir," said Noel quickly, "were those of every intelligent man
who wishes to succeed. Besides, have not all parties one and the same
aim--power? They merely take different means of reaching it. I will not
enlarge upon this subject. Be assured, sir, that I shall know how to
bear my name, and think and act as a man of my rank should."

"I trust so," said M. de Commarin; "and I hope that you will never make
me regret Albert."

"At least, sir, it will not be my fault. But, since you have mentioned
the name of that unfortunate young man, let us occupy ourselves about
him."

The count cast a look of distrust upon Noel.

"What can now be done for Albert?" he ask