wig, and boots with holes in them."

A mischievous and bitter smile expressed the feelings, half
philosophical and half satirical, which such a man was certain to
experience--a man well situated to know the truth of things in spite
of the lies behind which most families in Paris hide their mode of
life.

"Good-morning, Monsieur Derville," said she, giving the monkey some
coffee to drink.

"Madame," said he, a little sharply, for the light tone in which she
spoke jarred on him. "I have come to speak with you on a very serious
matter."

"I am so /grieved/, M. le Comte is away--"

"I, madame, am delighted. It would be grievous if he could be present
at our interview. Besides, I am informed through M. Delbecq that you
like to manage your own business without troubling the Count."

"Then I will send for Delbecq," said she.

"He would be of no use to you, clever as he is," replied Derville.
"Listen to me, madame; one word will be enough to make you grave.
Colonel Chabert is alive!"

"Is it by telling me such nonsense as that that you think you can make
me grave?" said she with a shout of laughter. But she was suddenly
quelled by the singular penetration of the fixed gaze which Derville