He should have said: "Au monde, madame, au monde," but the meaning was clear.
Sometimes this thought-quickness and happy dexterity had to be used in self-defence.

Jean Lorrain was the wittiest talker I have ever heard in France, and a most brilliant journalist.

His life was as abandoned as it could well be; in fact, he made a parade of strange vices.

In the days of Oscar's supremacy he always pretended to be a friend and admirer.
About this time Oscar wanted me to know Stephane Mallarme.

He took me to his rooms one afternoon when there was a reception.