All men are equal--especially men of taste!" "Do you think," asked Newman presently, "that Madame de Cintre is determined not to marry ?" "That is my impression.

But that is not against you; it's for you to make her change her mind." "I am afraid it will be hard," said Newman, gravely.
"I don't think it will be easy.

In a general way I don't see why a widow should ever marry again.

She has gained the benefits of matrimony--freedom and consideration--and she has got rid of the drawbacks.

Why should she put her head into the noose again?
Her usual motive is ambition: if a man can offer her a great position, make her a princess or an ambassadress she may think the compensation sufficient." "And--in that way--is Madame de Cintre ambitious ?" "Who knows ?" said Bellegarde, with a profound shrug.