It was now Montalais who was disconcerted in her turn.

"I have declared my sentiments to you," continued Malicorne.

"You have told me three times, laughing all the while, that you did not love me; you have embraced me once without laughing, and that is all I want." "All ?" said the proud and coquettish Montalais, in a tone through which the wounded pride was visible.
"Absolutely all, mademoiselle," replied Malicorne.
"Ah!"-- And this monosyllable indicated as much anger as the young man might have expected gratitude.

He shook his head quietly.
"Listen, Montalais," said he, without heeding whether that familiarity pleased his mistress or not; "let us not dispute about it." "And why not ?" "Because during the year which I have known you, you might have had me turned out of doors twenty times if I did not please you." "Indeed; and on what account should I have had you turned out ?" "Because I have been sufficiently impertinent for that." "Oh, that,--yes, that's true." "You see plainly that you are forced to avow it," said Malicorne.
"Monsieur Malicorne!" "Don't let us be angry; if you have retained me, then it has not been without cause." "It is not, at least, because I love you," cried Montalais.
"Granted.

I will even say, at this moment, I am certain that you hate me." "Oh, you have never spoken so truly." "Well, on my part, I detest you." "Ah! I take the act." "Take it.