"Will you never have done with your nonsense, you rascal?" snapped the delighted housekeeper.
"Oh, this is only the beginning. I've got to make a complete conquest of you, Mamma Barbançon."
"Of me?"
"Unquestionably. It is absolutely necessary. I'm compelled to do it."
"And why?"
"In order to induce you to grant me a favour."
"We'll see about that. What is it?"
"Tell me first where my uncle is."
"Smoking his pipe out under the arbour."
"All right! Wait for me here, Mamma Barbançon, and prepare your mind for something startling."