This was the happy result of the practical and natural philosophy which Frenchmen cultivate so well, and which insures the happiness of their existence under an appearance of frivolity! I was confused, I was in despair, but the stout gentleman continued to laugh heartily.

At last he left the pit, and a minute afterwards I saw him enter the box and speak to his wife.

I was keeping an eye on them without daring to look at them openly, and suddenly the lady, following the example of her husband, burst into a loud laugh.

Their mirth making me more uncomfortable, I was leaving the pit, when the husband called out to me, "Sir! Sir!" "I could not go away without being guilty of impoliteness, and I went up to their box.

Then, with a serious countenance and with great affability, he begged my pardon for having laughed so much, and very graciously invited me to come to his house and sup with them that same evening.