“Oh! as to that,” says Hippomanes, “I shall be very modest: and how is it possible not to be as devote as an angel in a private lodge? In truth, you have a charming neck⁠—”

“Ha’ done,” says Alphana, “you break your word already.”

“Not at all,” replies the president: “but you have not answered my question. What do you think of this furniture?” And then turning to his greyhound, “come hither, Folly, give me thy paw, my child. Folly is a good girl.⁠—Will madam be pleased to take a turn in the garden? Let us walk on my terrace, it is a charming one. I am overlooked by some of my neighbours, but possibly they will not know you.⁠—”

“My lord president, I am not curious,” says Alphana with an air of dudgeon. “I think we are better here.”