This was nothing less than a bold manoeuvre to hasten Silviane's admission to the Comedie Francaise.

The idea had occurred to her of making the Baron give a dinner at the Cafe Anglais in order that she might meet at it an influential critic, who, according to her statements, would compel the authorities to throw the doors wide open for her as soon as he should know her.

However, it did not seem easy to secure the critic's presence, as he was noted for his sternness and grumbling disposition.

And, indeed, after a first repulse, Duthil had for three days past been obliged to exert all his powers of diplomacy, and bring even the remotest influence into play.

But he was radiant now, for he had conquered.
"It's for this evening, my dear Baron, at half-past seven," he exclaimed.
"Ah! dash it all, I've had more trouble than I should have had to secure a concession vote!" Then he laughed with the pretty impudence of a man of pleasure, whom political conscientiousness did not trouble.