"'Then do so.'
"'If you will permit me to stand upon my feet I will answer you at once.'
"'Answer me where you are.'
"But, mademoiselle, I am an officer. It is impossible that an officer can sit upon a table.'
"'Answer--me--at--once!' Dear mamma, I shook him again.
"'Ah, sacré nom! C'est embêtant! Will you destroy my clothing? Look into that drawer.'
"I pulled out the drawer. The first thing I saw was a telegram. I took it up.
"'Is this it?'
"'That is it! You have said! Now, perhaps, you will permit me to descend.'
"'I think, Baron, that you had better stay for a moment where you are.'