Clermont is well, and thanks his master for his polite enquiries after her health."
Madeline sat down in a state of the most painful confusion, from which she was soon, in some degree, relieved by the entrance of the officers: they were immediately introduced to her and the Countess; and then requested the honour of their company for the evening. The Countess politely thanked them for their attention, but declined their invitation; and their mortification at her doing so, was evident. The conversation, however, soon grew lively, and was supported by all but Madeline with the utmost spirit.
"Pray (asked Mademoiselle Chatteneuf, during the pause of a minute, addressing one of the officers), what is become of de Sevignie to-day? I think he is generally your companion in your morning visits and rambles."
