"Is it permitted to remark that the Marchese is not alone in that opinion?" inquired Batiscombe, politely.
"No," said Leonora, demurely, "it is not permitted. And observe that an English husband would not say that kind of thing in public, mon cher."
"Perhaps because they do not believe it in private," objected Marcantonio.
"More likely for the reason I suggested," observed Batiscombe, "that we are all donkeys."
"All?" asked Leonora. "But some of you are authors"—
"It is the same thing," said Batiscombe.
"Mon Dieu! there are times"—began Marcantonio.
"When you believe it?" inquired Batiscombe, laughing.
"Ah, no! you are unkind; but times when I should like to be an Englishman."
"I have heard of such people," said Batiscombe, gravely, "but I have never met one. You interest me, Marchese."