“But when I want yours so much, ange farouche , 121 what does a little reluctance on your part signify? Dieu merci! 122 we know how to manoeuvre with our gifted compatriote ⁠—the learned ourse Britannique . 123 And so, Ourson , you know Isidore?”

“I know John Bretton.”

“Oh, hush!” (putting her fingers in her ears) “you crack my tympanums with your rude Anglicisms. But, how is our well-beloved John? Do tell me about him. The poor man must be in a sad way. What did he say to my behaviour the other night? Wasn’t I cruel?”