It is a pleasant and clean employment." "Flower-makers ?" muttered Lorilleux.

"Every one of them might as well walk the streets." "Well, what about me ?" objected Madame Lerat, pursing her lips.

"You're certainly not very polite.

I assure you that I don't lie down for anyone who whistles." Then all the rest joined together in hushing her.

"Madame Lerat! Oh, Madame Lerat!" By side glances they reminded her of the two girls, fresh from communion, who were burying their noses in their glasses to keep from laughing out loud.