"Bless me, yes! The Arabs regard an oasis as the best of ambuscades."
"Well, I was something of an Arab last night; and I say my mea culpa, regretting it all the more because I am really and truly sorry you leave me so soon."
"Is it because there is still an unexplored corner of your oasis you want me to see?"
"No; it is because your frankness, loyalty, and the community of dangers we have shared (in opposite camps) inspired me--I scarcely know why, but instantly--with a sincere and deep regard for you."
"On your word as a gentleman?"
"On my word as a gentleman and a soldier."
"Well, then, I offer you my friendship in return, my dear enemy," replied Dermoncourt. "I expected to find an old émigré, powdered like a white frost, stiff and haughty, and larded with antediluvian prejudices--"
"And you've found out that a man may wear powder and have no prejudices,--is that it, general?"
"I found a frank and loyal heart and an amiable,--bah! let's say the word openly,--jovial nature, and this with exquisite manners, which might seem to exclude all that; in short, you've seduced an old veteran, who is heartily yours."
"Well, it gives me a great deal of pleasure to hear you say so. Come, stay one more day with me!"