Without counting the time lost in being measured, the fashions are always changing." "That is exactly the point," said Porthos, "in regard to which I flattered myself I had hit on a very ingenious device." "Tell me what it is; for I don't doubt your genius." "You remember what Mouston once was, then ?" "Yes; when he used to call himself Mousqueton." "And you remember, too, the period when he began to grow fatter ?" "No, not exactly.

I beg your pardon, my good Mouston." "Oh! you are not in fault, monsieur," said Mouston, graciously.

"You were in Paris, and as for us, we were at Pierrefonds." "Well, well, my dear Porthos; there was a time when Mouston began to grow fat.

Is that what you wished to say ?" "Yes, my friend; and I greatly rejoice over the period." "Indeed, I believe you do," exclaimed D'Artagnan.
"You understand," continued Porthos, "what a world of trouble it spared for me." "No, I don't--by any means." "Look here, my friend.

In the first place, as you have said, to be measured is a loss of time, even though it occur only once a fortnight.
And then, one may be travelling; and then you wish to have seven suits always with you.