He replied, smiling:
"Are you going to ask a favor?"
"Yes, only one."
"But are we not in the state of mortal sin?"
"That is true."
"Well, then?"
"I shall ask, just the same."
They had brought with them old Colas, who, acquainted with the localities and usages, served them as a guide. As soon as the door of their compartment was disencumbered they descended, and got into a coach which started off at a gallop, with a great tinkling of bells. The horses were decorated and plumed like barberi. The drivers wore peacocks' feathers in their hats, and did not cease flourishing their whips, accompanying the deafening cracks with hoarse cries.
Hippolyte, tormented by impatience and extraordinary uneasiness, as if this day were to realize some great event for her, asked the old man:
"How long will it take to get there?"