“It is nearly ten years since I was brought in such close contact with my cousin as now. I was very young then. I have grown older and more sensible. Why has not he done the same?”
“Your sarcasm is malicious and unmerited. Albert is a charming fellow.”
“Oh! I agree with you! But this very fact injures him in my estimation. A charming fellow is one who requires an hour to dress; is skilled in paying a multitude of compliments he does not mean; has a petty mind that only takes interest in trifles; in short, a useless being it is impossible to rely on. When Albert came, he seemed to be conscious of the absurdity of being a charming fellow. He tried to put on a semblance of gravity, but it did not last long. Once more the proverb held good: Chasser le naturel, il revient au galop.”[197]
“Wonderful, my dear. You have every qualification for a dévote: especially one characteristic—maliciousness. Poor Albert! how you have set him off! Happily, there is not a word of truth in all you have said. He a man on whom you cannot rely! He has a heart of gold.”
“I do not dispute the goodness of his heart. I have never put it to the proof.”
“What a wicked insinuation! How dreadful it is to always believe the worst of everybody.”
“Well, let it be so: he has a kind heart!... But is there any depth to him?”
“As much as is necessary. This would be a sad world if we were always obliged to live with moody people like some one I know of. I really believe he is your beau ideal.”
“I do not say that; but, if he is really what he appears to be, he merits my good opinion. I wish all I live with resembled him.”
“Well done! A little more, and you will tell me he is the realization of all your dreams.”