“A truce to ceremonies: time flies; my name is the Countess d’Estrades; you love Mademoiselle d’Annebault, my niece; do not say no, it is useless. You are seeking a cornetcy; you shall have it to-morrow, and if you care for Athénaïs you will soon be my nephew.”
“Ah! madame, what excess of goodness!”
“But you must speak.”
“No, madame.”
“I have been told that you love that little girl.”
“As much as it is possible to love; but if ever my love is to declare itself in her presence my honor must also be there.”
“You are very obstinate, chevalier! Is that your final reply?”
“It is the last, as it was the first.”
“You refuse to enter the Guards? You refuse the hand of my niece?”
“Yes, madame, if that be the price.”