"I have heard it stoutly maintained that he is a man of genius," said another.
"To reconcile the two assertions, gentlemen," said Brévannes, "it must be confessed they are somewhat similar, especially when the man of genius is in repose. Tell me, is this prince young or old?"
"No one knows," said Fierval; "some declare that he is kept from society for fear his whims should excite laughter."
"And others assert that he has so profound a contempt for the world, or so much love for science, that he never leaves the house."
"The devil!" said M. de Brévannes; "then this German must be a very mysterious personage—as a husband he must be very agreeable. Does any one know who plays the cavalier to the princess?"
"No one!" said Fierval.
"Every body!" exclaimed the domino.
"That's the same thing," resumed M. de Brévannes. "But this Madame de Hansfeld, is she really so very captivating?"
"I am a woman, and I must confess that nothing can be seen more strikingly handsome," said the domino.
"She has such eyes—such eyes!—oh! there never were such eyes!" said M. de Fierval.