"Ha! ha! perturbation is a pretty word; I must remember it. Never mind; proceed, Papa Blanquette."
"People in our society do not indulge in such improper dances as those you have performed, monsieur."
"But, if I remember right, Aunt Merlin seemed to enjoy that dance pretty well."
"I didn't invite you to our ball, monsieur; so I consider it much too—much too——"
"Presumptuous!—you can't find the word, but that's it, I fancy; eh?"
"Yes, monsieur; too presumptuous, to appear where you're not invited, and especially in a costume so negligée as yours. You have thrown down enough persons; we don't care to have any more of it, and I beg you to go."
"Ah! that's your idea of politeness, is it? Very good! bonsoir! I will go! Your party isn't so very fine, after all; I haven't seen a single glass of punch. And you fancy that you do things in style, do you? No, no! you're a long way behind the times!"
"Be good enough to remember also, monsieur, that you owe me four hundred and ninety-five francs; and, if you don't quit, I will take harsh measures——"
"Bravo! I expected that—that's the bouquet! The idea of talking about your account at a ball! Look you, old Blanquette: you make me sick! Adieu, Rome, I go!—Mesdames, I lay my homage at your feet. I am sorry to have jostled you a little; but, on my word of honor, it was the fault of your partners; they didn't know how to hold you."
This fresh insult to the male portion of the guests renewed their wrath, and they threatened to attack Cherami. He removed his yellow glove and threw it at their feet, saying: