And, moreover, there were many complicated tasks to be attended to, a prodigious rotation of duties, quite a little world to be governed with a firm hand.

The Baron spoke like a general who each year gains a great victory over the spirit of the age; and, sending Berthaud back to finish his _dejeuner_, he insisted on escorting the ladies into the little sanded courtyard, which was shaded by some fine trees.
"It is very interesting, very interesting," repeated Madame Desagneaux.
"We are greatly obliged to you for your kindness, monsieur." "Don't mention it, don't mention it, madame," answered the Baron.

"It is I who am pleased at having had an opportunity to show you my little army." So far Gerard had not quitted Raymonde's side; but M.de Guersaint and Pierre were already exchanging glances suggestive of leave-taking, in order that they might repair by themselves to the Place du Marcadal, when Madame Desagneaux suddenly remembered that a friend had requested her to send her a bottle of Lourdes water.

And she thereupon asked Gerard how she was to execute this commission.

The young man began to laugh.