JOSEPHINE At this unexpected announcement Talleyrand and Berthier looked at each other in silence, and for once the trained features of the great diplomatist, who lived behind a mask, betrayed the fact that he was still capable of emotion.

The spasm which passed over them was caused, however, rather by mischievous amusement than by consternation, while Berthier--who had an honest affection for both Napoleon and Josephine--ran frantically to the door as if to bar the Empress from entering.
Constant rushed towards the curtains which screened the Emperor's room, and then, losing courage, although he was known to be a stout-hearted man, he came running back to Talleyrand for advice.

It was too late now, however, for Roustem the Mameluke had opened the door, and two ladies had entered the room.

The first was tall and graceful, with a smiling face, and an affable though dignified manner.

She was dressed in a black velvet cloak with white lace at the neck and sleeves, and she wore a black hat with a curling white feather.