Chapter 106

MADAME DE P---- TO LADY OLIVIA.

Paris,---- 18, ----.

Really, my dear Olivia, this is too childish. What! make a complaint in form against me for taking a lover off your hands when you did not know what to do with him! Do you quarrel in England every time you change partners in a country dance? But I must be serious; for the high-sounding words _treachery_ and _perfidy_ are surely sufficient to make any body grave. Seriously, then, if you are resolved to be tragical, _et de me faire une scène_, I must submit--console myself, and, above all things, take care not to be ridiculous.

Your letters, as you desire it so earnestly, and with so much reason, shall be returned by the first safe conveyance; but excuse me if I forbear to restore your _souvenirs_. With us Parisians, this returning of keepsakes has been out of fashion, since the days of Molière and _Le dépit amoureux_.

Adieu, my charming Olivia! I embrace you tenderly, I was going to say; but I believe, according to your English etiquette, I must now conclude with

I have the honour to be,

Madam,

Your most obedient,

Humble servant,

GABRIELLE DE P----.

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