“Yes, give us the benefit of your wisdom,” said the capitalist, covering his ill-humor with a tone of light irony. “In matrimonial as well as martial councils, the Nestors should be heard. ‘_La face des vieillards est pleine de majesti: Leur voix sur l’existence a des secrets intimes._’”[65] “_Une vieux de la vieille_,”[66] confirmed _Boni_, “is a California of experience; a barometrical and chronometrical counsellor; a universal grammar bound in gold; a--” “Hush, _Boni_!” whispered the capitalist in the ear of his friend, who, less accustomed to champagne than the others, began to feel its emancipating influence. Meantime, the old officer stroked his gray moustache in silence. “Well, what do you think, general!” questioned Gallardo. “I think that you ought to marry.” “_C’est clair_,” said the Parisian. “It is clear,” repeated _Boni_--“as clear as detestable water; and they think of bringing it into Madrid! Will spend millions to do it!” “_Taisez vous, mon cher_,” entreated the model, in a low tone. 194 “I am not in the humor,” replied the copy, in excellent Spanish. “Of course he ought to marry,” said all the rest. “Let us understand each other, gentlemen,” said the old general. “I think, Gallardo, that you ought to marry, not the mushroom of the millions, but Lucia.” These words were received with clamorous disapprobation. “You take advantage of your _rôle_ of Nestor, general,” exclaimed the capitalist. “The hero of former times dotes--I would say _radote_. I propose a vote of censure!” hiccoughed the copy. “S-s-s, Boni. _Le vous en prie!_[67] Do you want to get another broadside from the disabled old pontoon? Don’t provoke him, for the next time neither prudence nor contempt will enable me to keep my temper,” murmured his patron. “The general is jesting. A gentleman of his fine delicacy cannot mean to counsel one, in Gallardo’s position, to marry a woman of light reputation,” said Gallardo’s friend.