"Certainly, monsieur; and I am so grateful for your sincerity that if I dared—"
"Do not hesitate, I beg of you, mademoiselle."
"But no, however frank you may be, however great a lover of truth, your sincerity, I am sure, would not exceed certain limits—"
"Those you yourself prescribe, mademoiselle; no others."
"Are you in earnest?"
"I am, I assure you."
"The question I am about to put to you, monsieur, will seem so peculiar, so bold, perhaps."
"Then, mademoiselle, I shall tell you that it seems strange and bold, that is all."
"I don't think I shall ever dare—"
"Ah, mademoiselle, you seem to be afraid of frankness, in your turn," said Olivier, laughing.