"You were told the truth. Have you something you wish to have embroidered?"
"Yes—that is to say—I don't know whether embroidered cravats are worn in Paris?"
"No, monsieur; they are not in style now."
"Indeed! and cuffs?"
"Nor cuffs either."
"And—handkerchiefs?"
"For ladies; oh! yes, monsieur, some beautiful embroidery is done on handkerchiefs."
"Ah! very good! You do embroider handkerchiefs!"
While they conversed, Dupont cast frequent glances at the young woman's feet, which were small and well arched; the lower part of the leg was very shapely; so that his thoughts were diverted, and he murmured again and again:
"Ah! you embroider handkerchiefs!"