"Là, là, là! Only you don't care quite enough, Monsieur Jean, to take my advice," she interrupted. "Is not that it?"
"If I don't I shall be the loser, I'm afraid," he replied, lugubriously.
"And then I should be sorry."
"Why?"
"Why not?"
"Because I am not worthy of it. Now answer me."
"Well, because it pleases me," she responded, with a smile. "You know what I said but a moment ago? I do what I please and account to nobody."
"Very well. Now, does it please your Supreme Highness to continue to shower the blessing of your royal favor upon me?"
"For to-day, perhaps; if you obey my imperious will, monsieur."
He prolonged the comedy by kneeling on one knee and saying humbly, "I am your most obedient subject. Command!"