"I can't say, monsieur; but I have always heard that it isn't safe to swear to anything."
"Now you're talking reasonably. Very well! let me be the fortunate mortal to make love known to you. I am in a position to make you happy, to make your lot an enviable one."
"A man always says that to the poor girl he is trying to seduce—but afterward——"
"I always keep my promises. In the first place, I will give you a pretty apartment, which I will furnish with taste. You shall have handsome clothes and jewels. I will take you to the play and to drive; you shall have a carriage at your disposal. I will pay all your tradesmen's bills, and in addition you shall have a thousand francs a month to spend.—Tell me, isn't that attractive?"
"Yes, indeed, most attractive! But how long will it last?"
"So long as you love me."
"You mean, so long as you love me; and you gentlemen who are able to gratify all your whims—your love affairs never last long."
"I have but one whim henceforth, and that is to please you. Well, Georgette, you have heard what I have to offer; you consent to make me happy, do you not?"
And the viscount tried to seize the girl's hand; but she hastily pulled it away.
"No, monsieur, no!" she replied.