'But it was to be expected.' 'For shame!' I cried, provoked almost beyond bearing by her ill-timed raillery, 'will you never be serious until you have ruined us and yourself?
I tell you this house is not safe for you! It is not safe for me! I cannot bring my men to it, for there is not room for them.

If you have any spark of consideration, of gratitude, therefore--' 'Gratitude!' she exclaimed, swinging her mask slowly to and fro by a ribbon, while she looked up at me as though my excitement amused her.
'Gratitude--'tis a very pretty phrase, and means much; but it is for those who serve us faithfully, M.de Marsac, and not for others.

You receive so many favours, I am told, and are so successful at Court, that I should not be justified in monopolising your services.' 'But, mademoiselle--' I said in a low tone.

And there I stopped.

I dared not proceed.
'Well, sir,' she answered, looking up at she after a moment's silence, and ceasing on a sudden to play with her toy, 'what is it ?' 'You spoke of favours,' I continued, with an effort.