But their hopes were blasted once more. It was not Dalville who had rung, but Tony, his diminutive groom, who came to inform Bertrand that after the ball, which was at Madame de la Thomassinière's, the resplendent Athalie had carried away a part of the company to breakfast at her country estate. Auguste was among the number; his hostess had refused to allow him even a moment to return home and change his clothes. But, as Auguste had emptied his purse at cards during the evening, he sent his little jockey, with the cabriolet, to obtain some money, which he was to deliver to his master at Madame de la Thomassinière's estate. As Virginie had held the salon door ajar, both ladies heard what the little groom said to Bertrand. "You see, mesdames, it is useless for you to wait any longer," said Bertrand, returning to the salon; "monsieur's off to the country; he has sent for something and that means that he isn't likely to return very soon." "Yes, he has sent for money," said Virginie, with a sigh. "God! how the man does throw it away! It's frightful! If he only gave me a quarter of what he----" Virginie checked herself; she realized that she had made a mistake. Madame Saint-Edmond cast a contemptuous glance at her and left the room, saying to Bertrand: "All that I ask you, monsieur, is to be kind enough to let me know when Monsieur Dalville returns." "I shall not fail, madame," replied the corporal, escorting the neighbor to the door. In the reception room she said to him: "I don't know who this hussy is that I found installed in Monsieur Dalville's apartment; but she acts like a fishwoman, and her manner is so insolent that I wouldn't have her for my cook." When the neighbor had gone, Virginie concluded to resume her hat and shawl.