It contained ancient chests,
credences, andirons and chandeliers. The stone walls were overhung
with magnificent tapestries. The deep embrasures of the four
windows were furnished with benches, and the Gothic windows were
composed of small panes of colored glass set in a leaden frame.
Between the door and the window to the left stood an immense
bookcase of Renaissance style, on the pediment of which, in letters
of gold, was the world "Thibermesnil," and, below it, the proud
family device: "Fais ce que veulx" (Do what thou wishest). When
the guests had lighted their cigars, Devanne resumed the
conversation.
"And remember, Velmont, you have no time to lose; in fact, to-night
is the last chance you will have."
"How so?" asked the painter, who appeared to regard the affair as a
joke. Devanne was about to reply, when his mother mentioned to him
to keep silent, but the excitement of the occasion and a desire to
interest his guests urged him to speak.
"Bah!" he murmured. "I can tell it now. It won't do any harm."
The guests drew closer, and he commenced to speak with the
satisfied air of a man who has an important announcement to make.
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