While Madame de Talmont asked Clémence many questions about the meeting, Emile opened a fire of banter upon Stéphanie, about the effect her dress and appearance had produced upon the assembly, and especially upon the Czar, “The very least I expected of his Imperial Majesty,” he said, “was to send an aide-de-camp to inquire who was the charming young lady in pink and green silk.” But Stéphanie did not reply with her usual saucy readiness; and Henri, noticing her agitation, quickly came to her relief, making some commonplace inquiry about the numbers who were present. “Ah, I see what is the matter,” said Emile: “the Czar was not there after all. Very unlike him, to disappoint so many young ladies.” Stéphanie gave the surprising answer, “I do not know if he was there. I never thought of him at all.” Then Clémence drew her gently away to her own room, leaving her there in quiet until supper was ready. As she went out Madame de Salgues observed, “I really think that child is improving--at least in appearance. This evening she looks almost pretty.” “I have always said that Mademoiselle Stéphanie de Sartines will one day be a beautiful woman,” Henri answered in a tone of decision. CHAPTER XXXVI. TWO HAPPY DAYS. “The shadow had passed from his heart and brow, And a deep calm filled his breast; For the peace of God was his portion now, And his weary soul found rest.” “You must all come, my friends,” said Ivan. “I have set my heart upon it.” He had been describing the preparations for the grand review of the Russian army which was to take place a few days later in the “Plaine des Vertus.” “Ah, yes; you must all go, certainly,” remarked Madame de Salgues. “Unless Madame de Salgues is obliging enough to be of the party, no one will go,” said Ivan. “I know that at least I can speak for Clémence.” “But what to do, my friend? It will take three days at the very least--one to go, one to stay, and one to return. And then, think of the crowds! Who knows even whether we shall find room in any of the hotels?” “You need have no anxiety about that, madame. The Emperor has engaged all the hotels and posting establishments of the district. I have only to obtain his order, through his secretary, for everything you require, and I know that I can do so. You must stay for the religious service on the day following the review; it will be the Emperor’s name-day.” “I should certainly like to witness _that_,” said Madame de Talmont. “I am sorry that my duties must deprive me of the pleasure of being your attendant cavalier,” pursued Ivan. “But Henri and Emile will more than supply my place; and you may perhaps wish to invite a friend to join your party.” “If we engage a carriage,” said Madame de Talmont, “we can accommodate another lady. Who shall it be, ma tante?” “It is for Prince Ivan to express his wishes on that point.”