"
"But I don't know how you know it, if you haven't asked her," Madame
Merle went on.
"In such a case there's no need of asking and telling; as you say,
we're an innocent couple. How did you know it?"
"I who am not innocent? By being very crafty. Leave it to me; I'll
find out for you."
Rosier got up and stood smoothing his hat. "You say that rather
coldly.
Don't simply find out how it is, but try to make it as it should
be."
"I'll do my best. I'll try to make the most of your advantages."
"Thank you so very much. Meanwhile then I'll say a word to Mrs.
Osmond."
"Gardez-vous-en bien!" And Madame Merle was on her feet. "Don't
set her going, or you'll spoil everything."
Rosier gazed into his hat; he wondered whether his hostess had
been after all the right person to come to. "I don't think I
understand you. I'm an old friend of Mrs. Osmond, and I think she
would like me to succeed."
"Be an old friend as much as you like; the more old friends she
has the better, for she doesn't get on very well with some of her new.
But don't for the present try to make her take up the cudgels for you.
Her husband may have other views, and, as a person who wishes her
well, I advise you not to multiply points of difference between them.
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