sister, in whom I feel the interest which I feel in you. It has
been just the same ever since I saw you. Well, for Heaven's sake,
take care of yourself, and do not live as you are living now."

"If I took care of myself I should die. All that supports me is
the feverish life I lead. Then, as for taking care of oneself,
that is all very well for women with families and friends; as for
us, from the moment we can no longer serve the vanity or the
pleasure of our lovers, they leave us, and long nights follow
long days. I know it. I was in bed for two months, and after
three weeks no one came to see me."

"It is true I am nothing to you," I went on, "but if you will let
me, I will look after you like a brother, I will never leave your
side, and I will cure you. Then, when you are strong again, you
can go back to the life you are leading, if you choose; but I am
sure you will come to prefer a quiet life, which will make you
happier and keep your beauty unspoiled."

"You think like that to-night because the wine has made you sad,
but you would never have the patience that you pretend to."

"Permit me to say, Marguerite, that you were ill for two months,
and that for two months I came to ask after you every day."

"It is true, but why did you not come up?"

"Because I did not know you then."

"Need you have been so particular with a girl like me?"