Then she went into the salon from the boudoir just as citizen-general Barras appeared in the door of the dining-room. "And what is this I hear, my beauty," said Barras, "have they been cutting throats under your window?"
"Yes, my dear general, and my foolish Suzette did not dare to open the door for you. I had to tell her three times, before she would obey me, she was so fearful lest one of the combatants had come to demand shelter. In vain I told her that it was your ring. I thought I should be obliged to open the door for you myself. But to what do I owe the pleasure of your visit this evening?"
"A first representation at the Feydeau this evening; and I will take you if you will go with me."
"No, thank you; all this firing and shouting has upset my nerves. I am not well and I prefer to remain at home."
"Very well; but as soon as the piece is over I shall come and ask you for some supper."
"Ah! you did not let me know in time, and I have nothing to offer you."
"Do not worry about that, pretty one; I will pass Garchi's on my way to the theatre and will leave an order for them to send a bisque, a bechamel, a cold pheasant, some shrimps, some ice-cream and fruit—a mere trifle, you perceive."
"My dear friend, you had much better let me go to bed. I warn you that I shall be very cross."
"I will not prevent your going to bed. You can take supper in bed and be cross as comfortably as possible."