"Strawberry and vanilla."
"Bring me a strawberry, then.—And you, monsieur, won't you take a strawberry ice?"
This question was addressed to Tobie, who did his utmost to look pleased as he replied:
"Oh, no! I never eat more than one ice, myself. I shouldn't dream of doing it. I have noticed that if you eat more than one, they are likely to do you a lot of harm; they give you cramps in the stomach."
"Oh! I could eat a dozen; I could eat them all day, without the least bad effect."
"The devil!" thought Tobie; "it's lucky they haven't anything but strawberry and vanilla."
The waiter went out and soon returned with the strawberry ice. Again he busied himself arranging the plates and glasses and spoons, but he left the room at last. Madame Plays attacked the strawberry ice, tasting also the macaroons and biscuits.
"The cost is climbing up," said Tobie to himself; "this woman eats a great deal. If I don't divert her attention by making love to her, both dishes will soon be empty. I have heard it said that women must always have one sense at work. Let's try to give her something else to think about."
He drew his chair nearer to Madame Plays, looked her in the eyes, and heaved a tremendous sigh. The fair creature, who was of a very jolly disposition, exclaimed, with a smile:
"Mon Dieu! Monsieur Tobie, what's the matter with you? You make eyes at me, and breathe so hard!"