"'I know what that means,' remarked M. de Ravil. 'M. de Mornand has crushed, by his sarcasm, the imprudent member who had the audacity to question any of his statements, for when he wishes to be, M. de Mornand is as witty as the devil.' "My guardian having suggested that we extend our walk to the observatory, I consented, and M. de Ravil accompanied us. "'M. le baron,' he remarked to my guardian; 'did you notice Madame de Bretigny, who left the hall just as we did?' "'The wife of the minister? No, I did not.' "'I am sorry, monsieur, for you would have seen one of the noblest women that ever lived. You have no idea what wonderfully good use she makes of her position as a minister's wife, or of the vast amount of good she does, the wrongs she repairs, and the assistance she gives to the worthy.' "'I am not surprised to hear it,' replied my guardian. 'In a position like that of Madame de Bretigny, one can do any amount of good, for--' "But interrupting himself suddenly, he turned to M. de Ravil and exclaimed, eagerly: "'Say, isn't that he over there in that secluded path, walking along, looking at the flowers?' "'To whom do you refer?' "'Why, to M. de Mornand. Look!' "'You're right, it is he!' replied M. de Ravil. 'He has forgotten his triumph--and is finding a welcome relief from the onerous cares of state in gazing at the flowers. This does not surprise me, however, for, with all his talent and his political genius, he is one of the best and most simple-hearted of men, and his tastes prove it. After his brilliant success, what does he seek? Solitude and flowers.' "'M. de Ravil, you know M. de Mornand, do you not?' inquired my guardian. "'Slightly. I meet him occasionally in society.' "'But you know him well enough to speak to him, do you not?' "'Certainly.' "'Then go and congratulate him on the success he just achieved. We will follow you so as to get a closer look at this great man. What do you say to my scheme, my dear ward?' "'I will accompany you, monsieur. One always likes to see distinguished men like M. de Mornand.' "Changing our course, we soon reached the path where M. de Mornand was walking. He replied to M. de Ravil's and my guardian's compliments with quite as much modesty as simplicity of manner, and addressed a few kindly remarks to me, after which we left him to continue his lonely promenade. "'When one thinks that this simple-mannered man will govern France in less than six months!' exclaimed M. de Ravil. "'Say admirably-mannered, my dear M. de Ravil,' corrected my guardian. 'M. de Mornand has quite the manner of a grand seigneur. He is both affable and dignified. He is not one of those silly popinjays who think only of the tie of their cravats and the cut of their hair.'