2/3 "But to-night, will you forgive me if I break through the cardinal rule of my life and ask you for a little stimulant? "Of course, one can't dispute a doctor's orders. What would you like ?" "Oh, anything you have. He did recommend champagne--if it was good; but anything will do." "A bottle of the VERY best champagne, Mackenzie!" The dinner now became an entirely satisfactory meal. Inspired by his champagne and by the success of his audacity in so easily surmounting all difficulties, the Count delighted his hostesses by the vivacity and originality of his conversation. |