CHAPTER XXXVI.
TWO HAPPY DAYS.
"The shadow had passed from his heart and brow,
And a deep calm filled his breast;
For the peace of God was his portion now,
And his weary soul found rest."
YOU must all come, my friends," said Ivan. "I have set my heart upon it." He had been describing the preparations for the grand review of the Russian army which was to take place a few days later in the "Plaine des Vertus."
"Ah, yes; you must all go, certainly," remarked Madame de Salgues.
"Unless Madame de Salgues is obliging enough to be of the party, no one will go," said Ivan. "I know that at least I can speak for Clémence."
"But what to do, my friend? It will take three days at the very least—one to go, one to stay, and one to return. And then, think of the crowds! Who knows even whether we shall find room in any of the hotels?"
"You need have no anxiety about that, madame. The Emperor has engaged all the hotels and posting establishments of the district. I have only to obtain his order, through his secretary, for everything you require, and I know that I can do so. You must stay for the religious service on the day following the review; it will be the Emperor's name-day."
