I felt foolishly proud and exhilarated, and gave her at my table the seat commanding a view of the room.

I then ordered a bottle of champagne, which I am forbidden to touch.
"It isn't often that I have the pleasure of dining with you," I said by way of apology.
"This is the very first time," she said.
"And it's not going to be the last," I declared.
"I thought you were going to ship me back to Marseilles to-morrow." She laughed lazily, meeting my eyes.

I smiled.
"It would be inhuman.

I allow you a few day's rest." Indeed, now she was here I had a curious desire to keep her.

I regarded the failure of my eumoirous little plans with more than satisfaction.
I had done my best.