Nathan appeared at this moment.
“What brings you here?” inquired Lousteau.
“Why, I am doing the minor theatres for the Gazette until something better turns up.”
“Oh! come to supper with us this evening; speak well of Florine, and I will do as much for you.”
“Very much at your service,” returned Nathan.
“You know; she is living in the Rue du Bondy now.”
“Lousteau, dear boy, who is the handsome young man that you have brought with you?” asked the actress, now returned to the wings.
“A great poet, dear, that will have a famous name one of these days.—M. Nathan, I must introduce M. Lucien de Rubempré to you, as you are to meet again at supper.”
“You have a good name, monsieur,” said Nathan.
“Lucien, M. Raoul Nathan,” continued Etienne.