"Yes; but what is it?"
"To consult me every time that your hand is asked for, and not to accept anyone without taking my advice."
"Very well."
"And to keep this a secret between us two. Not a word of it to your father or your mother."
"Not a word."
"It is a promise, then?" "It is a promise."
Rival came up with a bustling air. "Mademoiselle, your papa wants you for the dance."
She said: "Come along, Pretty-boy."
But he refused, having made up his mind to leave at once, wishing to be alone in order to think. Too many new ideas had entered his mind, and he began to look for his wife. In a short time he saw her drinking chocolate at the buffet with two gentlemen unknown to him. She introduced her husband without mentioning their names to him. After a few moments, he said, "Shall we go?"
"When you like."