"I think the arrangement perfect," answered Olivier, gaily; "and I assure you that never in your life did you insert in any contract a clause that is less likely to excite controversy than this."
"We will now proceed with the signing of the contracts," said the notary, gravely, rising as he spoke.
Madame de Senneterre, having taken advantage of the general movement, to approach M. de la Rochaiguë, now said, like one completely bewildered:
"My dear baron, will you be kind enough to tell me what all this means?"
"What, madame la duchesse?"
"Why, all this mystery that is going on here."
"It is one that brought me nearly to the verge of madness a few days ago, madame la duchesse."
"But does M. Olivier really believe that Mlle. de Beaumesnil is a poor little embroideress?"
"Yes, madame."
"But why did he refuse the offer you made him?"