Chicotin did not reply: "Because he has the gout;" for Roncherolle had forbidden him to mention that. He said whatever came into his head, and returned to make a report of his errand.
But a few days later, Roncherolle, feeling able to walk, bent his steps toward Madame de Grangeville's abode.
XXXVI
TWO FORMER LOVERS
"Madame, there is a gentleman here who wishes to see you," said Lizida to her mistress one day.
"Did he give his name?"
"He would not; he says that he prefers to afford madame the pleasure of recognizing him."
"It is Monsieur de Merval, no doubt—the same gentleman who came last summer?"
"Oh, no! it's not that gentleman, madame; I should have recognized him. It's one whom I never saw before."
"What sort of looking man? Has he a distinguished appearance? is he stylishly dressed?"
"So far as being distinguished goes—yes, madame. He acts as if he was in the habit of being waited on. As for his dress, why, his clothes don't look as if they'd just come from the tailor's!"