“Give me time to put on my gown, great plague that you are!”
“If it is because of my modesty, do not think of it. I am not over nice. I should like you very well as you are!”
“Only to think that such a monster is the favorite of all the churchgoers!” said Rose-Pompon, opening the door as she finished fastening her dress.
“So! you have at last returned to the dovecot, you stray girl!” said Ninny Moulin, folding his arms, and looking at Rose-Pompon with comic seriousness. “And where may you have been, I pray? For three days the naughty little bird has left its nest.”
“True; I only returned home last night. You must have called during my absence?”
“I came, every day, and even twice a day, young lady, for I have very serious matters to communicate.”
“Very serious matters? Then we shall have a good laugh at them.”
“Not at all—they are really serious,” said Ninny Moulin, seating himself. “But, first of all, what did you do during the three days that you left your conjugal and Philemonic home? I must know all about it, before I tell you more.”
“Will you have some olives?” said Rose-Pompon, as she nibbled one of them herself.
“Is that your answer?—I understand!—Unfortunate Philemon!”