"Oh, I'll give away no man's secrets!" simpered Bancroft.
Philip raised his eyeglass. He observed Mr. Bancroft dispassionately. Then he shrugged, and turned back to Clothilde.
"Petite ange, it's a sad tale. Six months ago I lived in the country, and I was a very churlish bumpkin. Then I was made to see the folly of my ways, and now—me voici!"
"I said that I scented an intrigue," said the Vicomte tranquilly.
"But wait, wait! You in the country, Philippe? You jest!"
"On my honour, no, chérie! I came to Paris to learn the ways of Polite Society."
"Six months ago?" De Bergeret was astonished. "It is your first visit? You learned all this in so short a time?"
"I have a natural aptitude," smiled Philip. "Now are you satisfied?"
"Je n'en reviendrai jamais!" Mademoiselle spoke emphatically. "Jamais, jamais, jamais!"
"I am not at all satisfied."