"Why, yes, we have had our experiences—I as a spectator—you as——"
"Of course—therefore this threatened irruption of frivolity and vice—"
"Say of youth and beauty; the other qualities—frivolity and vice—may coexist with age and ugliness, and, therefore, harmlessly."
"Well, what you will, it does not please me. But, under existing circumstances, with my application pending, you know it was impossible to deny the marchioness her whim."
"Of course; and so for a single night the Chateau des Anges becomes a fairy palace. Well, what harm—you can't apprehend that a single fête, however gay and spirited, will—ruin you."
"Why, no; after all, it is, as you say, but a single fête, and then extinguish the lights, and lock the doors, and so the Chateau des Anges becomes as sober as before."
"And I wager a hundred crowns you will tell Madame Le Prun that you have given this fête entirely on her account."
"I thought of that," he replied, with a grin; "but it would not be wise."
"Why so?"
"Because it would make a precedent."