"You are a brave fellow!" said Monsieur Plays, shaking Tobie's hand; "I never doubted it. So poor Albert is really dead this time?"
"Yes, unfortunately; for I will confess to you that it grieves me deeply."
"I believe it, oh! I believe it. Adieu, Monsieur Pigeonnier! It is my turn now to apologize to you."
"Your obedient servant, Monsieur Plays!"
Tobie sauntered away, and Herminie's spouse returned to his better half and repeated all that the young man had just told him. Madame Plays listened impatiently, then exclaimed:
"It isn't true. He has made a fool of you again. Albert isn't dead."
"But, my dear love, he seemed to be deeply moved, and then he gave me all those details."
"Lies! However, we will soon know the truth; and woe to you, monsieur, if you have allowed yourself to be hoodwinked! Come! Come!"
"Where, madame?"
"To Monsieur Vermoncey's house. Oh! I won't be deceived this time."