But there was now a general uprising against him.

The table grew merry at his sallies, for they thought him very witty, but that was no reason why the evening should be spoiled.

Vandeuvres, whose subtle countenance was darkening visibly, insisted on his restoring Labordette his sex.

The other men--Mignon, Steiner and Bordenave--who were by this time much exalted, also intervened with shouts which drowned his voice.

Only the old gentleman sitting forgotten next to Nana retained his stately demeanor and, still smiling in his tired, silent way, watched with lackluster eyes the untoward finish of the dessert.
"What do you say to our taking coffee in here, duckie ?" said Bordenave.
"We're very comfortable." Nana did not give an immediate reply.