t, and that his success would be achieved by
daring steps of the same kind. He walked back more slowly, his heart
aglow with satisfaction, and arrived a little in advance of the time at
the door of his former mistress.

She received him with proffered lips, as though no rupture had taken
place, and she even forgot for a few moments the prudence that made her
opposed to all caresses at her home. Then she said, as she kissed the
ends of his moustache: "You don't know what a vexation has happened to
me, darling? I was hoping for a nice honeymoon, and here is my husband
home for six weeks. He has obtained leave. But I won't remain six weeks
without seeing you, especially after our little tiff, and this is how I
have arranged matters. You are to come and dine with us on Monday. I
have already spoken to him about you, and I will introduce you."

Duroy hesitated, somewhat perplexed, never yet having found himself face
to face with a man whose wife he had enjoyed. He was afraid lest
something might betray him--a slight embarrassment, a look, no matter
what. He stammered out: "No, I would rather not make your husband's
acquaintance."

She insisted, very much astonished, standing before him with wide open,
wondering eyes. "But why? What a funny thing. It happens every day. I
should not have thought you such a goose."

He was hurt, and said: "Very well, I will come to dinner on Monday."

She went on: "In order that it may seem more natural I will ask the
Forestiers, though I really do not like entertaining people at home."

Until Monday Duroy scarcely thought any more about the interview, but on
mounting the stairs at Madame de Marelle's he felt strangely uneasy, not
that it was so repugnant to him to take her husband's hand, to drink his
wine, and eat his bread, but because he felt afraid of something without
knowing what. He was shown into the drawing-room and waited as usual.
Soon the door of the inner room opened, and he saw a tall, white-bearded
man, wearing the ribbon of the Legion of Honor, grave and correct, who
advanced towards him with punctilious politeness, saying: "My wife has
often spoken to me of you, sir, and I am delighted to make your
acquaintance."

Duroy stepped forward, seeking to impart to his face a look of
expressive cordiality, and grasped his host's hand with exaggerated
energy. Then, having sat down, he could find nothing to say.

Monsieur de Marelle placed a log upon the fire, and inquired: "Hav