And this “Well!” sounded coldly ironic, as if he were saying: “Now go through your performance.”

“André, already!” said the little princess, turning pale and looking with dismay at her husband.

He embraced her. She screamed and fell unconscious on his shoulder.

He cautiously released the shoulder she leaned on, looked into her face, and carefully placed her in an easy chair.

“Adieu, Marie,” said he gently to his sister, taking her by the hand and kissing her, and then he left the room with rapid steps.