ing courage, although he was known to be a stout-hearted
man, he came running back to Talleyrand for advice. It was too late
now, however, for Roustem the Mameluke had opened the door, and two
ladies had entered the room. The first was tall and graceful, with a
smiling face, and an affable though dignified manner. She was dressed
in a black velvet cloak with white lace at the neck and sleeves, and she
wore a black hat with a curling white feather. Her companion was
shorter, with a countenance which would have been plain had it not been
for the alert expression and large dark eyes, which gave it charm and
character. A small black terrier dog had followed them in, but the
first lady turned and handed the thin steel chain with which she led it
to the Mameluke attendant.

'You had better keep Fortune outside, Roustem,' said she, in a
peculiarly sweet musical voice. 'The Emperor is not very fond of dogs,
and if we intrude upon his quarters we cannot do less than consult his
tastes. Good evening, Monsieur de Talleyrand! Madame de Remusat and I
have driven all along the cliffs, and we have stopped as we passed to
know if the Emperor is coming to Pont de Briques. But perhaps he has
already started. I had expected to find him here.'

'His Imperial Majesty was here a short time ago,' said Talleyrand,
bowing and rubbing his hands.

'I hold my _salon_--such a _salon_ as Pont de Briques is capable of--this
evening, and the Emperor promised me that he would set his work
aside for once, and favour us with his presence. I wish we could
persuade him to work less, Monsieur de Talleyrand. He has a frame of
iron, but he cannot continue in this way. These nervous attacks come
more frequently upon him. He will insist upon doing everything,
everything himself. It is noble, but it is to be a martyr. I have no
doubt that at the present moment--but you have not yet told me where he
is, Monsieur de Talleyrand.'

'We expect him every instant, your Majesty.'

'In that case we shall sit down and await his return. Ah, Monsieur de
Meneval, how I pity you when I see you among all those papers! I was
desolate when Monsieur de Bourrienne deserted the Emperor, but you have
more than taken his place. Come up to the fire, Madame de Remusat!
Yes, yes, I insist upon it, for I know that you must be cold. Constant,
come and put the rug under Madame de Remusat's feet.'

It was by little acts of thoughtfulness and kindness like this that