Page:The Writings of Prosper Merimee-Volume 5.djvu/251

Rh old Countess entered at that moment, dressed for the street.

"Lisanka," said she, "order the carriage, we will go for a drive."

Lisa rose immediately and began putting her work away.

"Well! What is the matter? Are you deaf? Go and tell them to harness immediately."

"I am going," answered the companion.

And she ran into the hall.

A servant entered carrying books sent by Prince Paul Alexandrovitch. "Many thanks. Lisanka! Lisanka! Where has she gone to?" "I was going to get my hat, Madam."

"We have plenty of time. Sit down here, take the first of these books and read to me."

The girl took up a book and read a few lines.

"Louder!" said the Countess. "What is the matter with you? Are you hoarse? Wait a minute, bring that stool nearer, now sit there and go on."

Lisabeta Ivanovna read on a couple of pages, the Countess yawning meanwhile.

"Throw away that tiresome book," said she. "What trash! Send them all back to Prince