The talk was of ancient and modern works.

Despreaux supported the ancient, with the exception of one single modern, which surpassed, in his opinion, both old and new.

Bourdaloue's comrade, who assumed the well-read air, and who had fastened on to Despreaux and Corbinelli, asked him what in the world this book could be that was so remarkably clever.

Despreaux would not give the name.
Corbinelli said to him, 'Sir, I conjure you to tell me, that I may read it all night.' Despreaux answered, laughing, 'Ah! sir, you have read it more than once, I am sure.' The Jesuit joins in, with a disdainful air, and presses Despreaux to name this marvellous writer.

'Do not press me, father,' says Despreaux.