So cheer up, papa.

All the coming years shall compensate for all we have lost in the past," said Salome, gayly caressing him.
"'The coming years ?' Ah, my darling! do you forget that I am quite an old man to be your father?
You were the child of my old age, Salome! I was nearly fifty when you were born.

I am nearly seventy now!" "_Dear father!_" murmured Salome, caressing him with ineffable tenderness.
"Do not let me sadden you, my darling.

I would not be a day younger.

It is well to be old.