"Well, then, Connie, here goes!"
And Gerrit gave his sister an offhand kiss.
"You're a couple of pastoral characters!" said Paul. "I can't compete with you."
"And now, Constance, a glass of champagne ... to drink to all the family and to our native land," said Gerrit; and, with Constance on his arm, he walked across the room to the buffet.
"Adelientje," said Paul, "was there ever such a madman as your husband?"
But Adolphine approached triumphant, trailing her satin train, which she thought magnificent, and, radiant with self-complacency, asked:
"Adeline, tell me now, what do you think of my party?"
"Oh, beautiful, Adolphine!" said Adeline.
"Adolphine," said Paul, "your party is simply dazzling. I have been to many parties in my life, but one like to-night's, never!"
"And a good dinner, wasn't it?"