Besides, what signifies nobility in these days?
There are not a thousand real noblemen in France.

The d'Herouvilles are descended from a tipstaff in the time of Robert of Normandy.

You will have to put up with many a vexation from the old aunt with the furrowed face.

Look here,--as you are so anxious for the title of duchess,--you belong to the Comtat, and the Pope will certainly think as much of you as he does of all those merchants down there; he'll sell you a duchy with some name ending in 'ia' or 'agno.' Don't play away your happiness for an office under the Crown.".