Page:Five Russian plays and one Ukrainian.pdf/106

84 : Does he know French?


 * Better than many of those Frenchmen whom you would be glad to receive in your house.


 * What is his character?


 * His name is Flatternot, and he is quite worthy of that name.

(sotto voce): A rude fellow, I am sure.


 * Is it really to be rude not to flatter?


 * Almost.


 * Allow me to assure you that from the person I recommend as instructor for your son you will have neither rudeness nor flattery.


 * We, on our side, will neglect nothing to show him our respect, and will always call him “Your Honour.”


 * That is, you expect him every minute to call you “Your Highness.”


 * It seems to me that everyone should be given his proper title.


 * But you consent to call him “Your Honour” for another reason.


 * Which?


 * So that all should know that your son’s tutor is a major.