But at that Chérubin’s face became clouded, and instead of following Monsieur de Monfréville and the notary, who had risen, he resumed his seat, saying:
“No, I don’t want to go away, for I want Louise to see me in these clothes.”
The two gentlemen from the city were in despair; they believed that they had fully persuaded the young marquis to accompany them, and again he refused.
The notary argued, Monfréville put forth all his eloquence and drew fascinating pictures of the pleasures of Paris, but Chérubin refused to go with them.
Monsieur Gérondif was in dismay, Nicole was triumphant, and Jasmin muttered under his breath:
“I had an idea that these men wouldn’t be any smarter than me.”
No one spoke, for no one knew what course to adopt. Suddenly they heard another carriage approaching. Thereupon a gleam of hope shone in Monfréville’s eyes, and Monsieur d’Hurbain exclaimed:
“Faith! it’s high time that Monsieur Daréna arrived, but I doubt very much his having any better success than we have had.”
“Perhaps he will,” murmured Monfréville; “Daréna is one of those people who dare to do anything.”
The carriage stopped in front of the nurse’s house, and Nicole’s guests ran to the door to see who alighted.