The Count looked at the Marquis and he knew that his friend was mocking him.
“But, of course. I know when I am not wanted.”
The Count walked across the room without saying anything more and closed the door behind him.
For a second the Marquis thought of following him and then, as if he felt compelled to do what the Count had suggested, he said,
“I want to speak to you, Miss Fenton, and perhaps this is a good opportunity.”
She looked up quickly and there was an expression in her eyes that he did not understand.
“You are not satisfied with me? You want me to leave?”
“No, of course not. I can assure you that you are completely indispensable. I have never found anyone who can embroider as well as you.”
He saw Lola give a little sigh of relief and then he sat down on the stool in front
