“Well, is it astonishing that I should look at the people, when that is what I came here for?”
“Oh, that is what you came for!”
“Well, sir, and for what do people generally come?”
“A thousand things.”
“Men perhaps, but women only for one—to see and be seen by as many people as possible.”
“Mademoiselle Oliva!”
“Oh, do not speak in that big voice, it does so frighten me; and above all, do not call me by name; it is bad taste to let every one here know who you are.”
The black domino made an angry gesture; it was interrupted by a blue domino who approached them.
“Come, monsieur,” said he, “let madame amuse herself; it is not every night one comes to a ball at the Opera.”
“Meddle with your own affairs,” replied Beausire, rudely.