o get puzzled. The non-appearance of the lady who had entered the
house was inexplicable, unless she resided there. His perplexity was
momentarily increasing, when he saw Count Tristan in conversation with
the forewoman. They left the apartment together. It then occurred to
Lord Linden that there might be other exhibition-rooms in the lower
story, and he had better reconnoitre. He had made up his mind to do
this, and was descending the stair, when he caught sight of Maurice de
Gramont and involuntarily retreated. What was Count Tristan doing here?
What brought his son here? Neither of the gentlemen were accompanied by
ladies. He returned to his former station, uncertain what step to take
next. Just then, Victorine passed through the apartment on her way to
the workroom. He accosted her and inquired if there were exhibition
rooms on the lower floor. She informed him that the first story was
reserved by Mademoiselle Melanie for her own use.

Lord Linden returned to his arm-chair, and had just made up his mind
that the lady of whom he was in search had visited Mademoiselle Melanie
in her own apartments and left the house again, when he was startled,
astounded, and overjoyed by the sight of the very being he sought,
tranquilly approaching him.

Madeleine looked serious, even sad; for she had consented to stoop to an
action which mortified her deeply.

Lord Linden was so thoroughly amazed at her sudden appearance that he
could not move,--could not collect himself to address her.

She courtesied, and said, with grave sweetness,--

"I was only informed a few moments ago of your presence here, my Lord."

Lord Linden rose and stammered out, "Is it possible? Do I really behold
you? This morning I saw you enter this house. I gained my admission as
Madame de Fleury's escort, and lingered in the hope of seeing you after
she left."

Lord Linden did not know how to proceed. He had expected to encounter
his incognita wearing her hat and mantle. He had supposed that her visit
to the residence of the celebrated _couturiere_ was to make some
purchase. To behold her so apparently at home bewildered him.

Madeleine perfectly comprehended his perplexity, and, with the utmost
composure, attempted to clear away the mist from his mind by saying,--

"I beg pardon; I was not aware that you accompanied Madame de Fleury. As
I have the honor of numbering Lady Augusta Linden, your lordship's
sister, among my customers, I thought"--

"Custo