"What does he want ?" Vladimir ventured to make a remark in Russian, from the door, which produced an immediate effect.

Margaret rose swiftly, overturning her chair and sweeping various small articles from the table in her rapid movement.

She went very quickly to the door, her magnificent black hair all hanging down.

She knew enough Russian to talk to the servant.
"What did you say, Vladimir ?" "Margareta Ivanowna"-- Margaret's father's name had been John--"Nicolai Alexandrewitch is here," said Vladimir, who seemed greatly surprised.
His geographical studies having been purely experimental, the sudden appearance of a Russian gentleman led him to suppose his mistress had landed in some outlying part of Russia, or at least of Europe.

So she bade the old servant conduct the gentleman to her sitting-room and ask him to wait.