"You refuse?"
Irène started. Caillette smiled and blushed.
"And may I know why?" asked the stranger, with a disdainful smile. "Why does——" She hesitated for the name. Fanfar supplied it. "Why does Monsieur Fanfar refuse to gain a few louis for his master?"
"Not his master," said Gudel, hastily.
"Let me speak," interrupted Fanfar. "I will explain to the lady. Our public are bourgeois and common folk who support us, and bring us success. Their hands are large, but they applaud well. They are good people, and I do not wish to humiliate them. To do what you ask would wound them deeply."
Irène listened, with a frown.
Gudel retreated to the background where he indulged in a silent laugh.
Fanfar waited, calmly.
"This is a lesson you read me?" she said, at last.
"No, Mademoiselle, it is only advice. Make yourself beloved by these peasants. I have much to do, and pray that you will excuse me."