It is just like my forgetfulness, to have made such a mistake.

I really only missed four lectures.

But my composition was interrupted by the door-bell, and my heart sank in my breast.

Mariuccia opened, and I knew by the sound of the stick on the bricks that the lame count had come to wreak his vengeance.
Being much frightened, I was very polite, and bowed a great many times as he came toward me.

It was he, looking much the same as ever, wooden and grizzly.
"I am much honoured, sir," I began, "by seeing you here." "You are Signor Grandi ?" he inquired, with a stiff bow.
"The same, Signor Conte, and very much at your service," I answered, rubbing my hands together to give myself an air of satisfaction.
"Let us not waste time," he said, severely but not roughly.