Volume II Part 5 (2/2)
Fanfaro and Caillette paused at their work, and now the young girl exclaimed in a clear bell-like voice:
”Monsieur Girdel, would it be possible for , that is, some that are hid from the rest of the spectators?”
”H' about
”Of course I shall pay extra for the seats,” continued the young lady
”We have only one price for the front rows,” said Firejaws, simply; ”they cost twenty sous and the rear seats ten sous”
The governess sighed sorrowfully; Irene took an elegant purse from her pocket and pressed it in Girdel's hand
”Take the et you the seats you desire, mademoiselle,” he said politely, ”but only for the usual price Fanfaro,” he said, turning to the young man, ”can't we possibly fix up a box?”
Fanfaro drew near, and the young lady with open wonder gazed at the beautiful youth
”What's the trouble, Papa Girdel?” he said
Before the giant could speak Irene said:
”I do not ask very much I would like to look at the performance, but naturally would not like to sit with the crowd You know, peasants and such corowled Girdel
”It is impossible,” said Fanfaro, coolly
”I lady in amazement
”But, Fanfaro,” interrupted Girdel, ”I should think we could do it A few boards, a carpet, and the thing is done”
”Perhaps, but I shall not touch a finger to it”
”You refuse?” exclaimed Irene ”Why, if I may ask?”
”Bravo, Fanfaro!” whispered Caillette, softly
”Will you answer my question, monsieur---- I do not know your name?”
said Irene, i an Irene, with a h, ”why do you refuse to lend yourhand?”
”Hiseyes; ”excuse me, mademoiselle, but you have been incorrectly inforhed Fanfaro, ”I will tell the young lady my reasons, and I think you will approve of them The public of 'peasants,'
and such 'common people,' who are so repulsive to you, mademoiselle, that you do not desire to touch them with the seam of your dress, admire us and provide us with our sustenance The hands which applaud us are coarse, I cannot deny it; but in spite of this, we regard their applause just as highly as that given to us by people whose hands are incased in fine kid gloves To give you an especial box, mademoiselle, would be an insult to the peasants, and why should we do such a thing? A, Irene looked steadily at his handsome face