"Because it seems to me that I always arrive most inopportunely and disturb you in the midst of your pleasures; and I shall do well not to intrude again, so long as you are—infatuated with this grisette."
"Really, Frédérique, I can't understand you! What connection can there possibly be between my follies, my amourettes, my momentary pleasures, and our delightful friendship?"
"Oh! you are quite right! Of course, there is not the slightest connection between me and your pleasures. Ah, me! I certainly do not know what I am saying to-day; my wits are all topsy-turvy. But, adieu! I repeat, I have an appointment; I must leave you. Adieu!"
"But I shall see you again soon?"
"Yes, soon."
She left the room. There were days when I was utterly at a loss to understand that woman's changing moods.
"Ah! here's Monsieur Pomponne! Just come this way, O faithful and, above all, obedient servitor!"
Pomponne hung his head and stood in front of me, like a Cossack awaiting the knout.
"What did I tell you when I sent you out this morning?"
"You told me, monsieur, that it would take me till two o'clock at least. But I hurried and got back earlier. Monsieur tells me sometimes that I am slow, and I wanted to prove that I could be quick."