Part 16

ROSETTE.

That is just what I complain of--you are the most perfect lover in the world.

What have you to reproach me for?

ROSETTE.

Nothing; and I would prefer to have some reason to complain of you.

This is an extraordinary quarrel.

ROSETTE.

It's much worse than that.--You don't love me.--I can do nothing about it, nor can you.--What remedy have I for that? Certainly I would prefer to have something to forgive you for.--I would scold you; you would apologize as best you could and we should make up.

That would be all clear gain for you. The greater the crime, the more imposing the reparation.

ROSETTE.

You know very well, monsieur, that I am not yet reduced to that, and that if I chose, at this moment, although you don't love me and we are quarrelling--

Yes, I agree that it is purely the result of your kindness of heart.--Be a little kind now; that would be better than syllogizing over our heads as we are doing.

ROSETTE.

You want to cut short a conversation that embarrasses you; but by your leave, my good friend, we will be content with talking.

That's a cheap repast.--I assure you that you are making a mistake, for you are distractingly pretty, and I have sensations.

ROSETTE.

Which you can describe some other time.

Aha! my adorable, you have become a little Hyrcanian tigress, have you? your cruelty to-day is beyond words!--Have you been taken with the fever to set yourself up as a vestal? It would be an amusing whim.

ROSETTE.

Why not? stranger whims have been known; but this much is sure, I shall be a vestal so far as you are concerned.--Understand, monsieur, that I give myself only to people who love me or who I think love me.--You are in neither position.--Allow me to rise.

If you rise, I shall rise too.--You will have the trouble of going back to bed, that's all.

ROSETTE.

Let me go!

Pardieu, no!

Rosette (struggling).

Oh! you shall let me go!

I venture, madame, to assure you of the contrary.

ROSETTE (seeing that she is not the stronger).