“I wash my hands of anything that may happen.”
There is something disgusting in that remark, and perhaps something profound in its suggestion of conjugal policy.
A diplomat, when he saw his wife’s lover enter, left his study and, going to his wife’s chamber, said to the two:
“I hope you will at least refrain from fighting.”
This was good humor.
M. de Boufflers was asked what he would do if on returning after a long absence he found his wife with child?
“I would order my night dress and slippers to be taken to her room.”
This was magnanimity.
“Madame, if this man ill treats you when you are alone, it is your own fault; but I will not permit him to behave ill towards you in my presence, for this is to fail in politeness in me.”
This was nobility.