"Oh! besides, my dear," Marianne continued, "your darling sin has not been to think of two things at one time! I don't understand anything of politics, it bothers me. I have been advised, however, that you have been thrashed by that Granet!"
"Thrashed, yes," said Sulpice, laughing, "you use peculiar phrases!—"
"Topical ones. I am of the times! But it appears that one must read the journals to learn about you. I am going to tell you some news however, before it appears in print."
"That interests me?"
"Perhaps, but it most assuredly interests me!"
"Important news?" asked Sulpice.
"Important or great, as you will!"
He nibbled his blond moustache nervously.
Guy had not deceived him.
"Then I think I know your news, my dear Marianne!"