He said in reply at once: "Impossible to dine," then he added: "But I willexpect you at our apartments at nine o'clock." Having sent a boywith the note in order to save the money for a telegram, he tried tothink of some way by which he could obtain his night meal. Hewaited until all of his associates had gone and when he was alone,he rang for the porter, put his arm inside his pocket and exclaimed:"Foucart, I sometimes have left my purse at home and I sometimes have to dine at theLuxembourg. Lend me fifty sous to pay for my cab."

The man handed him three francs and asked:

"Is that enough?"

"Yes, thank you." Taking the coins, Duroy rushed down the staircaseand dined at a cookshop.

At nine o'clock, Mme. de Marelle, whom he awaited in the tiny salon,arrived. She wished to take a walk and he objected. His oppositionirritated her.

"I shall go alone, then. Adieu!"

Seeing that the situation was becoming grave, he seized her armsand kissed them, saying:

"Pardon me, darling; I am nervous and out of sorts this evening. Ihave been annoyed by business matters."

Somewhat appeased but still, vexed, she said in reply: