world leaned her head on Leon's shoulder. At the satme time, fatigue suggesting tenderness, she locked the fingers of her right hand into those of her husband 's left; and, half-closing her eyes, dozed off into a golden borderland between sleep and waking. But ail the time she was not unaware of what was passing, and saw the painter's wife studying her with looks between contempt and envy.
It occurred to Léon that his constitution demanded the use of some tobacco; and he undid his fingers from Elvira's in order to roll a cigarette. It was gently done, and he took care that his indulgence should in no other way disturb his wife's position. But it seemed to catch the eye of the painter's wife with a special significancy. She looked straight before her for an instant, and then, with a swift and stealthy movement, took hold of her husband's hand below the table. Alas! she might have spared herself the dexterity. For the poor fellow was so overcome by this caress that he stopped with his mouth open in the middle of a word, and by the expression of his face plainly declared to all the company that his thoughts had been diverted into softer channels.
If it had not been rather amiable, it would have been absurdly droll. His wife at once withdrew her touch; but it was plain she had to exert some force. Thereupon the young man colored and looked for a moment beautiful.
Leon and Elvira both observed the by-play, and a shock passed from one to the other; for they were inveterate match-makers, especially between those who were already married.
"I beg your pardon," said Leon, suddenly. "I see no use in pretending. Before we came in here we heard sounds indicating—if I may so express myself—an imperfect harmony."
"Sir " began the man,
But the woman was beforehand.
"It is quite true,' she said. "I see no cause to be
