And the handsome blond departed.
"He goes off without paying," said Dodichet; "our friend doesn't stand on ceremony."
"He probably forgot it," said Lucien; "but we three will pay."
"Sapristi! I find that I forgot to bring my purse!" said Dodichet, feeling in his pockets.
Adhémar smiled and made haste to pay the waiter, saying:
"Allow me to be your host, messieurs; it will give me great pleasure. I believe you know my address, my dear Lucien; do come to see me sometimes."
"Thanks, my dear Adhémar; I shall not forget your invitation.—Adieu, Dodichet!"
Lucien Grischard also took his leave.
"He is proud," said Adhémar, as he and Dodichet left the café together. "He doesn't come to see me, because he is poor and doesn't choose that anyone shall help him."
"Well, then, he's wrong. I am not like that, thank you," rejoined Dodichet; "a man shouldn't be proud with his friends. And so, Adhémar, d'ye see, I don't hesitate to say to you: I have left my purse at home; pray lend me a hundred sous. I will pay you the next time I see you."