"You can see after a little, gentlemen, all the fine things a smile may mean, for I call you to witness I am satisfied with smiling."
"Seriously, my dear sir, what do you think of Count Frantz?"
"I think nothing, I say nothing, I shall be as mute as a diplomatist whose interest it is to keep silent, or as a young officer of the noble guards when he passes, for the first time, under the inspection of monseigneur."
"The truth is, the prince has a glance which intimidates the boldest. But to return to Count Frantz."
This conversation was interrupted by a number of persons who entered the official chamber.
The newcomers banished the thought of Count Frantz, and two or three voices asked at once:
"Well, what about your sightseeing? Is this famous manufactory in the Faubourg St. Marceau worth the trouble of a visit?"
"For my part, gentlemen, I am always very curious about the construction of machinery," replied one who had just entered. "The whole morning has been interesting, and I declare M. Charles Dutertre, the proprietor of this factory, one of the most accomplished and intelligent machinists that I know, besides being a most agreeable man; I intend to persuade monseigneur to visit his workshops."
"Well and good, my dear sir; we will not accuse you of wasting your time in frivolities, but I have not such high pretensions, and my pretension is only in a state of hope."
"And what hope?"