"Not this evening," he replied. I have other engagements."
"Bah! and I promised to go, believing you were sure to be of the party. St. Pol, I know, will be there, and De Brézy also."
"Chardonnier's parties are charming things in their way," said Dalrymple, somewhat coldly, "and no man enjoys Burgundy and lansquenet more heartily than myself; but one might grow to care for nothing else, and I have no desire to fall into worse habits than those I have contracted already."
M. de Simoneourt laughed a dry, short laugh, and twitched again at the supercilious moustache.
"I had no idea you were a philosopher," said he.
"Nor am I. I am a mauvais sujet--mauvais enough, already, without seeking to become worse."
"Well, adieu--I will see to this affair of the Tilbury, and desire them to let you have it by noon to-morrow."
"A thousand thanks. I am ashamed that you have so much trouble in the matter. Au revoir."
"Au revoir."
Whereupon M. de Simoncourt honored me with a passing bow, and took his departure. Being near the window, I saw him spring into an elegant cabriolet, and drive off with the showiest of high horses and the tiniest of tigers.