"Don't be alarmed, sir (said the man, who was young and appeared agitated, on perceiving him step back); I am servant to a lady of distinction, who is travelling from Paris to her chateau about ten leagues from this, and has met with an unfortunate accident in the valley, her coach being there overturned, and so much damaged, that she cannot proceed on her journey till it has been repaired: at a loss, in the mean time, for a place to stay in, she has sent to the owner of this cottage, who I suppose, sir, (bowing) you are, to request he will have the goodness either to permit her to remain a few hours in it, or inform her where she can gain admittance."
Clermont instantly desired him to present his respects to his lady, and inform her that he was happy he could have the honour of accommodating her. The servant bowed again, and hurried away, while Clermont put the light into Jaqueline's hands, and returned to the parlour to assist Madeline in settling
