Anybody but La Palferine would have been
frozen by his reception, and disconcerted by the lady's first efforts
to rid herself of her cavalier, by her chilly air, her curt speeches;
but no gravity, with all the will in the world, could hold out long
against La Palferine's jesting replies. The fair stranger went into
her milliner's shop. Charles Edward followed, took a seat, and gave
his opinions and advice like a man that meant to pay. This coolness
disturbed the lady. She went out.
"On the stairs she spoke to her persecutor.
"'Monsieur, I am about to call upon one of my husband's relatives, an
elderly lady, Mme. de Bonfalot--'
"'Ah! Mme. de Bonfalot, charmed, I am sure. I am going there.'
"The pair accordingly went. Charles Edward came in with the lady,
every one believed that she had brought him with her. He took part in
the conversation, was lavish of his polished and brilliant wit. The
visit lengthened out. That was not what he wanted.
"'Madame,' he said, addressing the fair stranger, 'do not forget that
your husband is waiting for us, and only allowed us a quarter of an
hour.
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