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264 “Adelientje,” said Paul, “was there ever such a madman as your husband?”

But Adolphine approached triumphant, trailing her satin train, which she thought magnificent, and, radiant with self-complacency, asked:

“Adeline, tell me now, what do you think of my party?”

“Oh, beautiful, Adolphine!” said Adeline.

“Adolphine,” said Paul, “your party is simply dazzling. I have been to many parties in my life, but one like to-night’s, never!”

“And a good dinner, wasn’t it?”

“The dinner was so good, it couldn’t have been better.”

“How do you like my new dress, Adeline? Just see how it fits.”

She passed her hands over her bosom.

“It’s a very charming dress, Adolphine,” said Adeline.

“Adolphine,” said Paul, “that velvet on the collar of Saetzema’s coat. . .”

“Yes? . . .”

“That’s good velvet.”

“Yes, they’re his new dress-clothes, from Teunissen’s.”

“And that satin of Floortje’s dress. . .”

“Yes? . . .”

“That’s good satin.”

“Oh, what do you know about satin?”

“Every one’s saying so.”

“Really?”