Ambition is like death; it takes all or nothing." "No, a hundred times no! I would take anything from my new countess; but rob Florine of her shell?
no." "Upset our money-box, break one's balance-pole, smash our refuge,--yes, that would be serious," said Blondet with a tragic air.
"It seems to me from what I hear that you want to play politics instead of comedies," said Florine, suddenly appearing.
"Yes, my dear, yes," said Raoul, affectionately taking her by the neck and kissing her forehead.

"Don't make faces at that; you won't lose anything.

A minister can do better than a journalist for the queen of the boards.

What parts and what holidays you shall have!" "Where will you get the money ?" she said.
"From my uncle," replied Raoul.
Florine knew Raoul's "uncle." The word meant usury, as in popular parlance "aunt" means pawn.
"Don't worry yourself, my little darling," said Blondet to Florine, tapping her shoulder.

"I'll get him the assistance of Massol, a lawyer who wants to be deputy; also Finot, who has never yet got beyond his 'petit-journal,' and Pantin, who wants to be master of petitions, and who dabbles in reviews.