“Because your strength will fail you. Galen has said it. Pulmo hominis facile deficit.”
“Alas! yes.”
“You see, then?”
“Luckily, I have zeal.”
“Ah! but that is not enough; I advise you to eat some sardines, and drink a little of this nectar.”
“A single sardine, then, and one glass.” Chicot gave him the sardine, and passed him the bottle. He himself took care to keep sober.
“I feel myself less feeble,” said Gorenflot.
“Oh! you must feel quite strong before you go, and so I advise you to eat the fins of the carp.” And as they entered with the pullet, Chicot cut off a leg and thigh, which Gorenflot soon despatched.
“What a delicious fish!” said Gorenflot. Chicot cut off the other leg and gave it to Gorenflot, while he ate the wings.
“And famous wine,” said he, uncorking another bottle.