The Grandissimes

Book Excerptense was interrupted by the return of the _Fille à la Cassette_ and her aged, but sprightly, escort, from a circuit of the floor. Madame again opened her eyes, and the four prepared to depart. The Dragoon helped the Monk to fortify herself against the outer air. She was ready before the others. There was a pause, a low laugh, a whispered "Now!" She looked upon an unmasked, noble countenance, lifted her own mask a little, and then a little more; and then shut it quickly down again upon a face whose beauty was more than even those fascinating graces had promised which Honoré Grandissime had fitly named the Morning; but it was a face he had never seen before."Hush!" she said, "the enemies of religion are watching us; the Huguenotte saw me. Adieu"--and they were gone. M. Honoré Grandissime turned on his heel and very soon left the ball."Now, sir," thought he to himself, "we'll return to our senses.""Now I'll put my feathers on again," says the plucked bird.