I supposed that we should go into his office and that we should find a fire there, for it was not warm; but Giraud invited me to sit down on the couch, saying:
“I don’t take you into my office, because it hasn’t been put to rights yet. Lord! how my thumbs ache!—But we can talk as well here; the fire will be lighted as soon as the salon is swept. Is it late? I haven’t found time to dress yet.”
“Why, it is after two o’clock.”
“Mon Dieu! and I have three appointments for this afternoon, to interview people who want to be married.”
“I do not wish to detain you.”
“Don’t go; they must wait for me. In truth, nothing is ever done here.—My friend, marriage is a very fine thing! I hope that you will soon take your place in the class of respectable married men.”
“Oh! I have time enough.”
“You must be tired of a bachelor’s life?”
“No, indeed.”
“Did you see anyone at my party yesterday who interested you? Come, tell me about it.”