"You are the master of the house; you need not stand upon etiquette." "But I have only my dressing gown and slippers, flannel waistcoat and trousers with stocking feet.

You have taken everything." "Never mind; we excuse you beforehand," replied the four.
A very good dinner was served at six.

The company arrived, Marcel limping and out of humor.

The young viscount rushed up to the ladies and led them to the best seats.

Mimi was dressed with fanciful elegance; Musette got up with seductive taste; Phemie looked like a stained glass window, and hardly dared sit down.
The dinner lasted two hours and a half, and was delightfully lively.