"Why, no, how could one forget the star Sirius?"
"I do not understand astronomy."
"Sirius is the most brilliant star in the heavens, everybody knows that."
"Well then I did not know it. You see how ignorant I am."
"I certainly do not; but you have modesty united to beauty and talent."
"No, I know I have no talent, but you do not like to tell me so."
"My girl, I have but just told you the contrary."
There was a touch of bitterness in the displeased tone of Fernanda, whilst that of the count was calm and ceremonious, although slightly dashed with irony.
"Very well, then I have misunderstood you."
"That is what you always do."