No, no, not to-day shall my sister serve coffee. The day of her marriage! No, indeed, I will take care of that. [_To_ Mme. de Ronchard.] You know that I am a lawyer, my dear Aunt, and therefore can do everything.
Oh, I know your abilities, Léon, and I appreciate them--
LÉON [_smiles, and gives his Aunt a cup of coffee_]
There she goes again--another little slap at me! That is never wanting. [_offers a cup to_ Martinel.] You will take a small cup, won't you, M. Martinel, and a nip of old brandy with it? I know your tastes. We will take good care of you.
LÉON [_to the newly married couple, seated L. and talking aside_]
And you, you bridal pair there? [_The couple, absorbed in each other, do not answer._] Oh, I suppose we must not bother you. [_He sets cup down on the table_].
You astonish me! My brother and Léon would not miss smoking each day for anything in the world. But what an abomination a cigar is!
Almost all abominations are delicious, Auntie; in fact many of them, to my personal knowledge, are exquisite.
Come and smoke in the billiard-room, since your aunt objects to it here.
The day when she will love anything except her spaniels--
Hold your tongue and come along. [_Exit_ C.]
This is the sort of marriage that I like--a marriage that, in this Paris of yours, you don't have very often. After the wedding breakfast, which takes place directly after you come from the church, all the guests go home, even the maids of honor and the ushers. The married couple remain at home and dine with their parents or relatives. In the evening they play billiards or cards, just as on an ordinary night; the newly married couple entertain each other. [Gilberte _and_ Jean _rise, and hand in hand slowly retire_ C.] Then, before midnight, good night!
MARTINEL [_sits_ R. _upon the sofa beside_ Mme. de Ronchard]
As to newly married couples--instead of going on that absurd and traditional thing you call a honeymoon, it is far better for them to go at once to the apartment or house prepared for them. I dare say you will think my plan lacking in fashion and display, but I cannot help that. For myself, I must say that I like absence of all ostentation.
Your plan is not according to the customs of polite society, Monsieur.