"Gontram!"
"Yes, look at me; it is unfortunately true. One of the most interesting chapters in Rabelais's 'Pantagruel' is devoted to the theme."
Spero was not in the humor for any literary discussion, and so he firmly said:
"If Rabelais handled this theme, he did it undoubtedly in a more worthy way than I could possibly have done."
"H'm, Rabelais merely gives the question, but does not answer it."
"You are speaking in riddles," said the vicomte, laughing, "and, as you know, I have very little acquaintance with practical life."
"But you know 'Pantagruel'?"
"Yes, but—"
"Panurge asks his master, 'Shall I marry or shall I not marry?' and Pantagruel replies, 'Marry or do not marry, just as you feel inclined.'"
"Ah, so that is the question you wish to place before me?" said Spero.