LADY. I read them the first thing after I rode away on that poor lieutenant's horse. So you see I know what's in them; and you don't.
NAPOLEON. Excuse me: I read them there in the vineyard ten minutes ago.
LADY. Oh! (Jumping up.) Oh, General I've not beaten you. I do admire you so. (He laughs and pats her cheek.) This time really and truly without shamming, I do you homage (kissing his hand).
NAPOLEON (quickly withdrawing it). Brr! Don't do that. No more witchcraft.
LADY. I want to say something to you—only you would misunderstand it.
NAPOLEON. Need that stop you?
LADY. Well, it is this. I adore a man who is not afraid to be mean and selfish.
NAPOLEON (indignantly). I am neither mean nor selfish.
LADY. Oh, you don't appreciate yourself. Besides, I don't really mean meanness and selfishness.
NAPOLEON. Thank you. I thought perhaps you did.