_M. Ridevos._ Broken, Mademoiselle, absolutely broken. But what will you? This night I surpass myself. I achieve a masterpiece--a sublime pyramid of quails with a sauce that will become classic. I pay now the penalty of a veritable crisis of nerves. It is of my temperament as artist. [Illustration: "BROKEN, MADEMOISELLE, ABSOLUTELY BROKEN."] _Mlle. Chiffon._ And me, my poor friend, how I have suffered from the cookery of these others--I who have the stomach so feeble, so fastidious! Figure to yourself an existence upon the villainous curry, the abominable "Iahristue," beloved by these barbarians, but which succeed with me not at all--oh, but not at all! Since I am here--ah, the difference! I digest as of old--I am gay. But next week to return with mademoiselle to the curry, my poor friend, what regrets! _M. Ridevos._ For me, dear mademoiselle, for me the regrets--to hear no more the conversation, so spiritual, so sympathetic, of a fellow-countrywoman. For remark that here they are stupid--they comprehend not. And the old ones they roll at me the eyes to make terror. Behold this Gorgon who approaches. She adores me, my word of honour, this ruin! [Miss STICKLER _comes up to the sofa smiling in happy unconsciousness_. _Miss Stickler_ (_graciously_). So you've felt equal to joining us for once, Mossoo! We feel it a very 'igh compliment, I can assure you. We've really been feeling quite 'urt at the way you keep to yourself--you might be a regular 'ermit for all _we_ see of you! _M. Ridevos._ For invent, dear Mees, for create, ze arteeste must live ze solitaire as of rule. To-night--no! I emairge, as you see, to res-tore myself viz your smile. _Miss Stickler_ (_flattered_). Well, I've always said, Mossoo, and I always _will_ say, that for polite 'abits and pretty speeches, give _me_ a Frenchman! _M. Ridevos_ (_alarmed_). For me it is too moch 'appiness. For anozzer, ah! [_He kisses his fingers with ineffable grace._ _Phillipson_ (_advancing to meet_ Miss DOLMAN, _who has just entered_). Why, I'd no idea I should meet _you_ here, Sarah! And how have you been getting on, dear? Still with----? _Miss Dolman_ (_checking her with a look_). Her grace? No, we parted some time ago. I'm with Lady Rhoda Cokayne at present. (_In an undertone, as she takes her aside._) You needn't say anything here of your having known me at Mrs. Dickenson's. I couldn't afford to have it get about in the circle I'm in that I'd ever lived with any but the nobility. I'm sure you see what I mean. Of course I don't mind your saying we've _met_. _Phillipson._ Oh, I _quite_ understand. I'll say nothing. I'm obliged to be careful myself, being maid to Lady Maisie Mull. _Miss Dolman._ My _dear_ Emma! It _is_ nice seeing you again--such _friends_ as we used to be!