Chapter XLIX

[Madame Lea d’Alençon has really nothing to say; but she says it charmingly as ever.]

The Hôtel Metropole, Monte Carlo,
February 25th, 1906.

Dear Mr. Gastonard,--I compliment you upon your self-denial. To refuse an invitation to dinner with your old friend! And to forbid me the opportunity of complimenting Madame!

Surely it is not true, cher Monsieur Henry, that Madame Gastonard is about to return to the circus? I positively refuse to believe it. But the world has such a _méchante_ tongue. Tell me that it is not so. Indeed, the report--and your unkindness--move me to some envy. Must I tame the lions--at my age? Helas, the spangles do not suit me!

It was good of you to come here, for now we may talk. How proud you must be of Madame’s success. I have even heard it said that she is learning to speak grammatically. How clever of her when one remembers the lions and the hoop! I am sure you are very, very proud!

My dear husband has returned from Tunis. We were laughing together yesterday at your misfortune--but very kindly of course. How very foolish of you to amuse Paris as you did. And all for a mere woman.

Ah well, as the proverb goes--_il n’y a que le matin en toutes choses_.

Your friend,
Lea d’Alençon.