Madame Baldimer did not reply, but she allowed Albert to take her hand and cover it with kisses. He tried to put his arm about her waist; but she gently repulsed him, saying:
"But how did you succeed in finding out that it was this very shawl that I wanted?"
"Didn't you tell me that it was like one that Madame Plays wore at one of Count Dahlborne's receptions?"
"Yes, I remember——"
"Well! I called on Madame Plays and asked her to show me the beautiful cashmere she wore that day."
"But I thought that you had quarrelled with that lady."
"I presented her with a bouquet, and she forgave me."
"Just for the bouquet?"
"Why, yes."
"Hm! I imagine that the shawl must have cost you something more."