His valet brought it, and helped Philip to put it on. It was a very exquisite confection of pink and silver brocade.
De Bergeret was interested.
"I'll swear you designed that, Philippe! Now for the coat!"
When Philip had at last succeeded in entering into the coat it was some ten minutes later. François stepped back, panting; Philip arranged his sword to his satisfaction.
"A careless sprinkling of rubies, hein? One in the cravat, one here, another in my wig. And on my fingers, so!..."
"Perfect!" applauded De Bergeret. "Tonnerre de Dieu, pink hummingbirds on your stockings!"
François beamed and clasped his hands, gazing in rapt admiration at Philip's startlingly clocked legs.
Philip laughed.
"Do they please your artistic soul, Jules? And are they to be wasted on De Farraud? I had intended to go to the Saint-Clamond rout, where I know I shall meet Clothilde. Come with me!"
De Bergeret shook his head.