The excerpt represents the core issue or deciding factor on which you must meditate, and is drawn from A Prince of Bohemia by Honore de Balzac: but no gravity, with all the will in the world, could hold out long
against La Palferine's jesting replies. The fair stranger went into
her milliner's shop. Charles Edward followed, took a seat, and gave
his opinions and advice like a man that meant to pay. This coolness
disturbed the lady. She went out.
"On the stairs she spoke to her persecutor.
" 'Monsieur, I am about to call upon one of my husband's relatives, an
elderly lady, Mme. de Bonfalot--'
" 'Ah! Mme. de Bonfalot, charmed, I am sure. I am going there.'
"The pair accordingly went. Charles Edward came in with the lady,
every one believed that she had brought him with her. He took part in
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