_M. Rid._ For me, dear Mademoiselle, for me the regrets--to hear no more the conversation, so spiritual, so sympathetic, of a fellow-countrywoman. For remark that here they are stupid--they comprehend not. And the old ones they roll at me the eyes to make terror. Behold this Gorgon who approaches. She adores me, my word of honour, this ruin!
[Miss STICKLER _comes up to the sofa smiling in happy unconsciousness_.
_Miss Stick, (graciously)._ So you've felt equal to joining us for once, Mossoo! We feel it a very 'igh compliment, I can assure you. We've really been feeling quite 'urt at the way you keep to yourself--you might be a regular 'ermit for all _we_ see of you!
_M. Rid._ For invent, dear Mees, for create, ze arteeste must live ze solitaire as of rule. To-night--no! I emairge, as you see, to res-tore myself viz your smile.
_Miss Stick, (flattered)._ Well, I've always said, Mossoo, and I always _will_ say, that for polite 'abits and pretty speeches, give _me_ a Frenchman!
_M. Rid. (alarmed)._ For me it is too moch 'appiness. For anozzer, ah!
[_He kisses his fingers with ineffable grace._
_Phillipson_ (_advancing to meet_ Miss DOLMAN, _who has just entered_). Why, I'd no idea I should meet _you_ here, SARAH! And how have you been getting on, dear? Still with----?
_Miss Dolman (checking her with a look)._ Her grace? No, we parted some time ago. I'm with Lady RHODA COKAYNE at present. (_In an undertone, as she takes her aside._) You needn't say anything here of your having known me at Mrs. DICKENSON'S. I couldn't afford to have it get about in the circle I'm in that I'd ever lived with any but the nobility. I'm sure you see what I mean. Of course I don't mind your saying we've _met_.
_Phill._ Oh, I _quite_ understand. I'll say nothing. I'm obliged to be careful myself, being maid to Lady MAISIE MULL.
_Miss Dolm._ My _dear_ EMMA! It _is_ nice seeing you again--such _friends_ as we used to be!
_Phill._ At her Grace's? I'm afraid you're thinking of somebody else. (_She crosses to_ Mrs. POMFRET.) Mrs. POMFRET, what's become of the gentleman I travelled down with--the horse doctor? I do hope he means to come in; he would amuse _you_, Mr. STEPTOE. I never heard anybody go on like him; he _did_ make me laugh so!