There was one thing that pleased me greatly, and that was her accent, in which there was a faint suggestion of the Midi, which, to my mind, is fascinating in a woman. She had a well-modulated voice, like almost all those who are born on the banks of the Garonne; it was not soft, but the accent deprived it of anything like harshness. And then, it reminded me of a fascinating Bordelaise, whom I had loved dearly, and known such a short time! On the whole, I was decidedly flattered to be considered Madame Dauberny's friend. But that did not cause me to forget my agreeable partner, to whom also I was deeply indebted. I was anxious to learn something concerning the pretty brunette. I tried to make up my mind to ask her friend Frédérique about her.
At that moment, she came toward me and whispered as she took my arm:
"Will you be my escort once more?"
"Ah, madame! I am too happy that you deign to accept me as such."
"Let us make a few turns about the room, and I will finish my task of giving you such information as you need concerning the company; then you will be free to return to Armantine."
"Armantine? Oh, yes! that is the lady who spoke to you in my behalf?"
"To be sure. You know her, do you not?"
"Not at all. I never saw her before; but I had danced a quadrille and waltzed with her."
"Well! this is a little strong! And what was the source of her deep interest in you?"
"The fact that I had told her of a mad prank I had just committed; of which I will tell you as well, with your permission."