Yet, the
relief I felt after the all but hopeless anguish in which I had been
drowning for the last few days gave to my spirit a wild exhilaration
that night. I encouraged Raoul with hints that I had news of the
necklace, and said that, if he would let me come to him in his office as
soon as it was open in the morning, I might be able to surprise him
pleasantly. Of course, he answered that it would give him the greatest
joy to see me there, or anywhere; and we parted with an appointment for
nine o'clock next day.
When he had gone, I wrote a note--a very short note--to Count Godensky.
I wanted to have it ready; but I did not mean to send it till the treaty
was in the safe whence I had taken it. Then, the letter should go at
once, by messenger; and it would still be very early in the day, I
hoped.
Usually, I have my cup of chocolate in bed at nine; but on the morning
which followed I was dressed and ready to go out at half past eight. I
think that I had not slept at all, but that didn't matter. I felt strong
and fresh, and my heart was full of courage. I was leaving nothing to
chance. I had a plan, and knew how I meant to play the last hand in the
game.
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