Chapt 6
The still well kept Chagny estate came into view. Even though Raoul had no interest in recent years to open it socially he still felt the responsibility, and because it was the right thing to do in memory of his beloved parents. Now he felt a building of excitement and pride in opening its doors once again.
Raoul almost felt like years had been given back to him; it had been seven since his parent's fateful trip on the Titanic. "Now I can reveal the secret that may have gone to the grave with me", Raoul thought with an actual smile upon his weathered face.
Both cars pulled up the large circular drive in front of the double front Tudor doors. As Raoul's driver and nurse did their duties of getting Raoul into his home, the Comte assisted Mme Giry out of his car. Young Erik waited to question the driver about where to leave the car, as it was now night time.
Once everyone had entered the main foyer, which was lit with gas lamps displayed in such a way to make it very welcoming, the butler came to ask what the Vicomte would need for his guests. As young Erik entered last and shut the huge door behind him, the butler looked up and immediately recognized him from visits many years ago to the Comte and Comtess. A smile lit his face, but turned to puzzlement as he turned his attention back to the Master of the house. Raoul still had his ability to detect facial changes that reflected changes in attitudes so he said, "My cousins are here and Mme Giry, their very close friend. Please bring some warm brandy into the salon and we'll warm ourselves by the fire." The butler nodded, and turned with a large smile upon his countenance, thinking as he went, "This visit has been a long time in coming."