She was so pleased at being called Rose, that for a moment she did not answer. Then she said, blushing:
"You see, I scarcely ever go out of this place; the idea hardly occurs to me. But I should love to go with you."
She added with a spoilt child's tone of authority: "I'll go and tell father. We'll start after luncheon."
M. Hervart looked once more at his indecipherable grass blade.
"I know a good shop," he said. "Lepoultel, the marine optician. Do you know him? He's a friend of Gauvain's...."
"The animal man?"
"What, do you mean to say you remember that?"
"I remember everything you tell me," answered Rose, very seriously.
M. Hervart was flattered. It occurred to him also that this sentimental child might make a very good practical little wife. His rather curious life passed rapidly before him and he called to mind some of the mistresses of his fugitive amours. He saw Gratienne; it was six months since they had met; she would
