"So we are really to see people who contribute to the prosperity of the country, and for that we may thank the doctor's love of eating!" said the canon, with amazement.
"No," cried the abbé, "what confounds me is to hear such absurdities maintained till the last moment, and—" but suddenly interrupting himself, he asked with surprise, as he looked around:
"What is that building, doctor? It looks like shops."
"That is my orangery," replied the doctor, "and to-day, as every year at this time, my birthday, they set up shops here."
"How is that; set up shops, and what for?" asked the abbé.
"Zounds! why, to sell, of course, my dear abbé."
"Sell what? and who is to sell?"
"As to what is sold, you will soon see, and as to the purchasers, why, they are my patrons, who are coming to spend the evening here."
"Really, doctor, I do not comprehend you."
"You know, my dear abbé, that for a long time charity shops have been kept by some of the prettiest women in Paris."