Out of the Past — page 74: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

Out of the Past. 71 admiration. The men turned to look at Vignaud and - soon gathered in groups in the foyers. Saline recognized none of them, passing on serenely to be presented to Mme. d’Escarte, who, being a widow, was supported by her son. As Jean d’Escarte saw her slowly approaching, his face became suffused with heat. So this was Mme. Vignaud. Should he present her? How avoid it? His mother was whispering: ‘What a surprising creature, Jean! I used to see such beauty at court, but never since we have lived under a Republic.” “There is a very good reason why not,” muttered Jean. The young man received Vignaud frigidly, saying simply: “This is Mme. Vignaud, I understand.” Saline dared not cast a glance at him. She received Mme. d’Escarte’s cordial greeting and watched the gentle manner in which the lady congratulated M. Vignaud upon his marriage. “We never expected it of you, mon ami. You are wise.” And then turning to Saline, “Your husband is an old-time friend, a much valued friend. I rejoice in his happiness, and I feel quite assured of your own.” Saline blushed appropriately, but did not trust herself to speak. All was so quiet and controlled that she felt muted, not daring to raise her voice. Yet she had time CONNICLOOOKS