I, however, unfortunately
forgot this during the course of our conversation."
"Yes, I remember. You told me where she was staying. But the
Countess and I are old acquaintances. I feel sure that she did not
object to your having given me her address. I could not possibly
leave London without calling upon her."
Mr. Brott moved in his chair uneasily.
"It seems presumption on my part to make such a suggestion perhaps,"
he said slowly, "but I really believe that the Countess is in
earnest with reference to her desire for seclusion just at present.
I believe that she is really very anxious that her presence in
London, just now should not be generally known."
"I am such a very old friend," Mr. Sabin said. "I knew her when
she was a child."
Mr. Brott nodded.
"It is very strange," he said, "that you should have come together
again in such a country as America, and in a small town too."
"Lenox," Mr. Sabin said, "is a small place, but a great center.
By the bye, is there not some question of an impending marriage on
the part of the Countess?"
"I have heard--of nothing of the sort," Mr. Brott said, looking up
startled. Then, after a moment's pause, during which he studied
closely his companion's imperturbable face, he added the question
which forced its way to his lips.
"Have you?"
Mr.
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