At this instant an approaching step was heard, and in the next, the shrill voice of Floretta, calling upon Madeline.
Provoked by this interruption, de Sevignie attempted to lead Madeline amongst the trees which bordered the path; but though as much disappointed as he could be, she resisted the effort.
"No, (said she) I cannot go, 'tis the Countess, I am convinced, that has sent after me, and she would be terrified if I could not be found; besides if her servant discovered me trying to avoid her, what might she not say. Some other time must do for the explanation which you were about giving, and which I will confess, you could scarcely be more anxious to utter than I to hear."
"What time, (asked de Sevignie) I shall be all impatience, all suspense, till we meet again; to-morrow evening you may surely come hither."
