"Never mind; I found a roll in the cupboard, and you ought to manage on a pound and a half of bread, eh?"
So saying, she put the soup on the board. All three had good appetites, but Gilbert held in his, but he was the first to get through.
"Who has called to-day?" inquired the host, to change the termagant's ideas.
"The whole world, as usual. You promised Lady Boufflers four quires of music, Lady Escars two arias, and Lady Penthievre a quartet with accompaniment. They came or sent. But the ladies must go without their music because our lord was out plucking dandelions."
Jacques did not show anger, though Gilbert expected him to do so, for he was used to this manner. The soup was followed by a chunk of boiled beef, on a delft plate grooved with knife points. The host served Gilbert scantily, as Therese was watching, took the same sized piece and passed the plate to his Xantippe.
She handed a slice of bread to the guest. It was so small that Jacques blushed, but he waited until she had helped him and herself, when he took the loaf from her. He handed it to Gilbert and bade him cut off according to his wants.
"Thank you," said Gilbert, as some beans in butter were served, "but I have no longer any hunger. I never eat but one dish. And I drink only water."
Jacques had a little wine for himself.
"You must see about the young man's bed," said the latter, putting down the bottle. "He must be tired."