"Look here," said he violently, "you will not make me believe you come from the Bon Marché."
But immediately, in the delightful manner of a child, she threw herself on his neck, closing his mouth with her pretty little plump hand.
"Oh! you wicked creature! you wicked creature!" she exclaimed; "hold your tongue; you know I love you."
She was so full of sincerity, he felt her still so candid, so straightforward, that he pressed her passionately in his arms. His suspicions always ended thus. She abandoned herself to him, loving to be petted. He covered her with kisses, which she did not return; and it was this that caused him a sort of vague uneasiness. This great, passive child, full of filial affection, had not yet awakened to love.
"So you ransacked the Bon Marché?" said he.
"Oh! yes. I'll tell you all about it," she replied. "But, first of all, let us eat. You cannot imagine how hungry I am! Ah! listen! I've a little present. Repeat, 'Where is my little present?'"
And she laughed quite close to his face. She had thrust her right hand in her pocket, where she held an object she did not take out of it.
"Say quick, 'Where is my little present?'" she continued.
He also was laughing, like a good-natured man, and did as she asked him.
"Where is my little present?" he inquired. She had bought him a knife to replace one he had lost, and which he had been regretting for the past fortnight. He uttered an exclamation of delight, pronouncing this beautiful new knife superb, with its ivory handle and shining blade. He wanted to use it at once. She was charmed at his joy, and, in fun, made him give her a sou, so that their friendship might not be severed.