The best course was to wait.

If her niece was long in coming it was because her occupations detained her; wasn't it so?
Besides, they weren't overworked--it was comfortable in the kitchen.

And as hearts were out, Mme Lerat threw down diamonds.
The bell began again, and when Zoe reappeared she was burning with excitement.
"My children, it's fat Steiner!" she said in the doorway, lowering her voice as she spoke.

"I've put HIM in the little sitting room." Thereupon Mme Maloir spoke about the banker to Mme Lerat, who knew no such gentleman.

Was he getting ready to give Rose Mignon the go-by?
Zoe shook her head; she knew a thing or two.