"Why, it seems to me that it is very pleasant to receive bouquets and other presents."
Monsieur de Mardeille bit his lips and said to himself:
"She likes her little presents; she's selfish; that's a pity!"
But that did not prevent him from moving his chair nearer to Georgette's, and trying to assume a very affectionate, touching tone, as he murmured:
"You have made no reply to my declaration, charming girl."
"I beg your pardon; didn't you hear me laugh?"
"What! is that the way you reply? What am I to conclude from that?"
"That I took your declaration of love for what it was worth—that is to say, for a joke."
"A joke! Oh! don't think it! I spoke most seriously. I love you! I adore you!"
"On the instant, just from seeing me at my window?"