and damp cardboard emanated from the various piles, where the debris

of forgotten dramas had been collecting for half a century.

"Come in," Bordenave repeated. "We shall be alone, at any rate."

The count was extremely embarrassed, and he contrived to let the

manager risk his proposal for him. Fauchery was astonished.

"Just this," said Bordenave finally. "An idea has occurred to us.

Now whatever you do, don't jump! It's most serious. What do you

think of Nana for the duchess's part?"