If he thought much more of her, there would be a logical sequence on his side.

He laughed again--with an effort--and settled back in his chair to renew his interest in the panorama revolving around him.
"They certainly know how to live in these countries," he thought, "for all their comic operas.

All I need, to have this fairy scene made complete, is a woman to talk to.

By George, what's to hinder me from finding one ?" he added, seized by the spirit of mischief.

He turned his head this way and that.