"
"Nay, do not attempt that; that will be direct encouragement."
"I will tell him that I am averse to marriage; in truth, that will be
no falsehood. I do not think that my heart is capable of more love than
it feels at present."
"That may be true now, Agatha; but suppose your heart should enlarge
before the autumn, at the touch of some gallant wizard--take my advice,
dear girl, make no rash promises."
"I will tell him that I cannot think of love till the King is on the
throne once more."
"If you say so, he will promise valiantly to restore His Majesty, and
then to return to you to look for his reward. Shall I tell you, Agatha,
what I should say?"
"Do, dearest Marie: tell me in sober earnest; and if there be ought of
sobriety mixed with your wit, I will take your advice."
"I would say to him thus: 'M. Denot,' or 'Adolphe,' just as your custom
is to address him--but mind, mark you, make him speak out firmly and
formally first, that your answer may be equally firm and formal. 'M.
Denot, you have paid me the greatest honour which a gentleman can pay
a lady, and I am most grateful for the good opinion which you have
expressed.
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