"
"I confess that I have a weakness for those stage gallants," Mme.
la Marquise said with a little sigh, "they are so handsome, and so
devoted--they always use such beautiful language, and make such graceful
gestures--they are really irresistible. I cannot help feeling vexed when
their impassioned appeals are received coldly, and they are driven to
despair, as so often happens in plays; I would like to call them to me
and try to console them, the bewitching creatures!"
"That is because madame has such a kind heart that she can't bear to
see any one suffer without trying to help and comfort them," said the
specious Jeanne. "Now I am of quite a different mind--nothing I would
like better than to flout a sentimental suitor; fine words would not
gain any favour with me--I should distrust them."
"Oh! you don't understand the matter, Jeanne! You have not read as many
romances, or seen as many plays as I have. Did you say that young actor
was very handsome?"
"Mme. la Marquise can judge for herself," answered the maid, who had
gone to the window, "for he is just crossing the court this blessed
minute, on his way to the orangery, where they are rigging up their
theatre."
Mme. la Marquise hastened to the window, and there was Leander in full
view, walking along slowly, apparently lost in thought, and wearing a
tender, sad expression, which he considered especially effective and
interesting--as we have said, he never for a moment forgot his role.
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