In order that his mother might not be over-saddened by his failure to dine with her that evening the young man had put on an air of brisk gaiety; and when he had explained that some friends were waiting for him, she at once released him from his promise, happy as she felt at seeing him so merry.
"Go, go, my dear boy," said she, "but mind you do not tire yourself too much....

I am going to keep Morigny; and the General and Larombiere are coming at nine o'clock.

So be easy, I shall have someone with me to keep me from fretting and feeling lonely." In this wise Gerard after sitting down for a moment and chatting with the Marquis was able to slip away, dress, and betake himself to the Cafe Anglais.
When he reached it women in fur cloaks were already climbing the stairs, fashionable and merry parties were filling the private rooms, the electric lights shone brilliantly, and the walls were already vibrating with the stir of pleasure and debauchery.

In the room which Baron Duvillard had engaged the young man found an extraordinary display, the most superb flowers, and a profusion of plate and crystal as for a royal gala.

The pomp with which the six covers were laid called forth a smile; while the bill of fare and the wine list promised marvels, all the rarest and most expensive things that could be selected.
"It's stylish, isn't it ?" exclaimed Silviane, who was already there with Duvillard, Fonsegue and Duthil.