" 'It is impossible !' resumed the husband with a sigh, 'and I am going to prove it by A plus B/
" 'Ah, desist, I pray you,' she replied, looking toward me. If it had been only algebra my preceptor would have comprehended this glance, but it was Chinese to him, and he continued:
" 'See, my child, you shall judge. We have an income of ten thousand francs.' At these words I retired toward the door, as though seized with curiosity to examine some articles. My discretion was recompensed by an eloquent glance. Alas ! she little knew the acuteness of my sense of hearing.
" 'The principles of general economy,' said my master, 'decree that one shall expend but two-tenths of his income on the rent of his dwelling and the wages of his servants; but our apartments and our retinue cost one hundred louis. I allow you twelve hundred francs for your wardrobe/ (here he dwelt upon each syllable), 'the cuisine consumes four thousand francs ; our children require at least twenty- five louis ; and I take for myself but eight hundred francs. Washing, fuel, and lights cost a thousand francs ; so there remain, as you see, only six hundred francs, which are not sufficient for unforeseen expenses. To purchase the diamond cross, it will be necessary to take one thousand crowns from our capital, and this way once opened, my little beauty, there will be no reason for not leaving this Paris which you love so dearly; we shall soon be compelled to remove to the country to re-establish our impaired fortune. Chil- dren and expenses will increase ! Come, be wise !"
" 'It is, indeed, necessary,' said she. 'But you will be the only husband in Paris who has not made his wife a New- Year's present.' And she slipped away like a school- girl who had received a punishment.
