Vandeuvres knew him and assured the company that he was great in his cups and at play.

But when the discussion was at its height the door was opened, and Hector de la Falois made his appearance.
Fauchery, who followed in his wake, approached the countess and, bowing: "Madame," he said, "I have not forgotten your extremely kind invitation." She smiled and made a pretty little speech.

The journalist, after bowing to the count, stood for some moments in the middle of the drawing room.
He only recognized Steiner and accordingly looked rather out of his element.

But Vandeuvres turned and came and shook hands with him.

And forthwith, in his delight at the meeting and with a sudden desire to be confidential, Fauchery buttonholed him and said in a low voice: "It's tomorrow.