“Well, then, we will make his acquaintance.”

“I will tell him of his good fortune.”

“Yes, and if he decline, bring him by force.”

“I will do what I can, I promise you. At what time?”

“Three o’clock; but as supper will remain on table till six you have ample margin.”

“Very well.”

A bouquet of myosotis, which perhaps had heard the latter portion of our conversation, then took D——’s arm and walked on with him.

Shortly afterwards I met Louis, who had by this time got rid of his violets.

As the lady who honoured me with her attention just then was a trifle dull, I despatched her to one of my friends, and took Louis’ arm.

“Well,” I said, “have you learnt what you wanted to know?”