“Oh, then, Raoul, you are at liberty to let your good sword feel the fresh air, and to give your horse a taste of those fine spurs you wear. But even in that case, I should advise you to use your edge rather than your point. There is not much harm done in wiping a saucy burgher across the face to mend his manners, but to pink him through the body makes it an awkward matter. And I need not tell you by no means to fire, unless you should be so beset and maltreated that you can not otherwise extricate yourself; yet you must have your pistols loaded. In these times it is necessary always to be provided against all things. I do not, however, tell you these things now because you are likely to be attacked; but such events are always possible, and one can not provide against such too early.”
“I will observe what you say, my father. Have I your permission now to depart?”
“Not yet, Raoul; I would speak with you first a few words. This Mademoiselle Melanie is very pretty, is she not?”
“She is the most beautiful lady I have ever seen,” replied the youth, not without some embarrassment.
“And as amiable and gentle as she is beautiful?”
“Oh, yes, indeed, sir. She is all gentleness and sweetness, yet is full of mirth, too, and graceful merriment.”
“In one word, then, she seems to you a very sweet and lovely creature.”
“Doubtless she does, my father.”
“And I beseech you tell me, viscount, in what light do you appear in the eyes of this very admirable young lady?”
“Oh, sir!” replied the youth, now very much embarrassed, and blushing actually from shame.