Vandeuvres lingered some minutes longer, feeling his way, as it were, and waiting to find out if, by any chance, some important business would oblige Muffat to cede him his place.

Soon, however, when he saw the count deliberately taking up his quarters for the night, he desisted from his purpose and said good-by, as became a man of tact.

But on his way to the door, he noticed Satin staring fixedly at Nana, as usual.

Doubtless he understood what this meant, for he seemed amused and came and shook hands with her.
"We're not angry, eh ?" he whispered.

"Pray pardon me.