"Such men," said Saffredent, "must be of the nature of the chameleon,
which lives on air. (9) There is not a man in the world but would fain
declare his love and know that it is returned; and further, I believe
that love's fever is never so great, but it quickly passes off when one
knows the contrary. For myself, I have seen manifest miracles of this
kind."

9 A popular fallacy. The chameleon undoubtedly feeds upon
small insects.--D.

"I pray you then," said Ennasuite, "take my place and tell us about some
one that was recalled from death to life by having discovered in his
mistress the very opposite of his desire."

"I am," said Saffredent, "so much afraid of displeasing the ladies,
whose faithful servant I have always been and shall always be, that
without an express command from themselves I should never have dared to
speak of their imperfections. However, in obedience to them, I will hide
nothing of the truth."

[Illustration: 020.jpg Tailpiece]

[Illustration: 021a.jpg The Lord de Riant finding the Widow with her Groom]

[The Lord de Riant finding the Widow with her Groom]

[Illustration: 021.jpg Page Image]