Such an idea carried with it in her mind a certain contempt
for a social amphibian, a being half-secretary, half-bailiff, and yet
neither the one nor the other, a poor relation, an embarrassing
friend.
"Because, countess," he answered with perfect ease of manner, "there
are no thanks due. I am Adam's friend, and it gives me pleasure to
take care of his interests."
"And you remain standing for your pleasure, too," remarked Comte Adam.
Paz sat down on a chair near the door.
"I remember seeing you about the time I was married, and afterwards in
the courtyard," said Clementine. "But why do you put yourself in a
position of inferiority,--you, Adam's friend?"
"I am perfectly indifferent to the opinion of the Parisians," he
replied. "I live for myself, or, if you like, for you two."
"But the opinion of the world as to a friend of my husband is not
indifferent to me--"
"Ah, madame, the world will be satisfied if you tell them I am 'an
original.'"
After a moment's silence he added, "Are you going out to-day?"
"Will you come with us to the Bois?"
"Certainly."
So saying, Paz bowed and withdrew.
"What a good soul he is!" said Adam. "He has all the simplicity of a
child."
"Now tell me all about your relations with him," said Clementine.
"Paz, my dear," said Laginski, "belongs to a noble family as old and
illustrious as our own.
Pages:
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39