"I must remark," said M. de Fierval, "that Madame de Lormoy, the only lady who visits Madame de Hansfeld on very intimate terms, speaks extremely well of her."
"For reasons plain enough," said M. de Brévannes; "the smallest bit of rock is always an America for the modern Columbuses. Madame de Lormoy has found her way into the Hôtel Lambert, and is, therefore, in duty bound to recite marvels of the princess. But à propos of Madame de Lormoy, what has become of her nephew, le beau des beaux, Leon de Morville? What happy woman now adores his archangelic face, since he has been obliged to break off with Lady Melford?"
"He remains faithful to the remembrance of his lovely islander," replied M. de Fierval.
"To the great displeasure of many ladies of fashion," added the domino; "amongst others of the little Marquise de Luceval, who affects originality, as if she were not sufficiently pretty to be natural. Being unable to carry, off Leon de Morville from his lady-love, whilst this affair was in existence, she now lives in hopes of the reversion."
"An attachment of five years is very rare."
"It is still more rare to find any one faithful to a recollection, I really cannot understand it," said M. de Brévannes.
"Especially when the constant swain is as much sought after as Morville is."
"As for me, I never could bear M. de Morville," said M. de Brévannes; "I have always endeavoured to avoid him."
"I assure you, my dear sir," said M. de Fierval, "that he is one of the best fellows in the world."
"That may be, but he seems so conceited of his pretty face."