"What bet?"
"The bet you made at the races to effect an entrance the same evening into that lady's house."
Frederick felt as if he had got a lash with a whip. He was speedily appeased by the look of utter confusion in Cisy's face.
In fact, the Maréchale, next morning, was filled with regret when Arnoux, her first lover, her good friend, had presented himself that very day. They both gave the Vicomte to understand that he was in the way, and kicked him out without much ceremony.
He pretended not to have heard what was said.
The Baron went on:
"What has become of her, this fine Rose? Is she as pretty as ever?" showing by his manner that he had been on terms of intimacy with her.
Frederick was chagrined by the discovery.
"There's nothing to blush at," said the Baron, pursuing the topic, "'tis a good thing!"
Cisy smacked his tongue.