"But you are going to make me two more; that will pay for them all."
"Oh! no, monsieur; I can't accept so much; I will take what is due me, but no more."
As she spoke, Georgette took fifteen francs in gold from the purse, which she proceeded to place on the table. Then she ran from the room, crying:
"Adieu, monsieur le vicomte! I will come again when your cigar cases are done."
Edward was so surprised by the girl's abrupt departure, that he did not even think of detaining her.
XXII
TERTIA SOLVET
As may be imagined, Georgette's refusal to accept the purse of gold had not diminished in the least degree the rich young man's caprice for the maiden; on the contrary, it was certain to intensify it, as she who had adopted that course of action well knew. The desires that are quickly satisfied last but a short time; our passions do not increase in force and deprive us of repose altogether, unless they encounter obstacles in their path. Good fortune that comes of itself—bah! no one cares for that! It is an unseasoned dish.
But, thanks to this new fancy, which rapidly became tyrannical in its demands, the viscount ceased to be bored, and smoked a few less cigarettes; which proves that love is always of some benefit. His friends noticed the change.
"My dear fellow, you have some new passion on the brain," said Florville; "I would stake my head on it!"
"Oh! that is visible to the naked eye," added Dumarsey. "We have a new intrigue on hand, which is waxing warm."