Carlo Ammiani, in fact, had opened matters with a scrupulously-courteous bow.
“Monsieur is perhaps unaware that he obscures the outlook?”
“Totally, monsieur,” said Captain Gambier, and stood fast.
“Will monsieur do me the favour to take three steps either to the right or to the left?”
“Pardon, monsieur, but the request is put almost in the form of an order.”
“Simply if it should prove inefficacious in the form of a request.”
“What, may I ask, monsieur, is your immediate object?”
“To entreat you to behave with civility.”
“I am at a loss, monsieur, to perceive any offence.”
“Permit me to say, it is lamentable you do not know when you insult a lady.”