Just then the master of the house came running breathless from within.

He had not seen that Cardinal Antonelli was taking his leave, and hastened to overtake him, lest any breach of etiquette on his part should attract the displeasure of the statesman.
"Your Eminence's pardon!" he exclaimed, hurriedly "I had not seen that your Eminence was leaving us--so early too--the Princess feared--" "Do not speak of it," answered the Cardinal, in suave tones.

"I am not so strong as I used to be.

We old fellows must to bed betimes, and leave you young ones to enjoy yourselves.

No excuses--good night--a beautiful ball--I congratulate you on the reopening of your house--good night again.