_Baroness_--Déodat had sincere convictions.

_Marquis_--That's because he fought for them. There are no more
mercenaries. The blows they get convince them. I'll give this fellow a
week to belong to us body and soul.

_Baroness_--If you haven't any other proofs of his faithfulness--

_Marquis_--But I have.

_Baroness_--Where from?

_Marquis_--Never mind. I have it.

_Baroness_--And why do you wait before presenting him?

_Marquis_--For him in the first place, and then for his consent. He
lives in Lyons, and I expect him to-day or to-morrow. As soon as he is
presentable, I'll introduce him.

_Baroness_--Meanwhile, I'll tell the committee of your find.

_Marquis_--I beg you, no. With regard to the committee, dear Baroness, I
wish you'd use your influence in a matter which touches me.

_Baroness_--I have not much influence--

_Marquis_--Is that modesty, or the exordium of a refusal?

_Baroness_--If either, it's modesty.