"Sir!——"
"Only to hear me say to you that I am endeavouring to forget you. The sacrifice I make is surely great enough to allow you to grant me this compensation?"
"This is a singular way of forgetting people; but if you believe it will have its effect, then, sir, some day I may again consent to see you."
"Ah! madame, what excessive goodness!"
"But mind, if I am not satisfied with the progress of your indifference, you will not obtain a single interview from me."
"I feel confident that I may promise you, madame, that you shall have no cause to regret the favour you grant me."
After a moment's silence, Paula replied,—
"You must think it very surprising, sir, after what formerly passed between us——"
"Madame——"
"I will not add another word. One day you shall know the motive of my conduct and my generosity; but it is growing late, and I must return home. Tell me who is the person who will introduce Madame de Brévannes to me?"