ons of the host to receive such distinguished guests--the
hurrying of servants here and there--the blaze of wax-lights that shone
half-way across the street beneath--and, lastly, the appearance of a
regimental band to play under the windows--were all circumstances well
calculated to sustain and stimulate that spirit of sharp criticism which
the group around the cafe were engaged in.

The discussion was, however, suddenly interrupted by the entrance of an
officer, at whose appearance every one arose and stood in attitudes
of respectful attention. Scarcely above the middle size, and more
remarkable for the calm and intellectual cast of his features, than for
that, air of military pride then so much in vogue amongst the French
troops, he took his place at a small table near the door, and called for
his coffee. It was only when he was seated, and that by a slight gesture
he intimated his wishes to that effect, that the others resumed their
places, and continued the conversation, but in a lower, more subdued
tone.

'What distinguished company have we got yonder?' said he, after about
half an hour's quiet contemplation of the crowd before the inn, and the
glaring illumination from the windows.

'Colonel Mahon, of the Fifth Cuirassiers, general,' replied an officer.

'Our Republican simplicity is not so self-denying a system, after all,
gentlemen,' said the general, smiling half sarcastically. 'Is he very
rich?'

'His mistress is, general,' was the prompt reply.

'Bah!' said the general, as he threw his cigar away, and, with a
contemptuous expression of look, arose and walked away.

'_Parbleu!_ he's going to the inn!' cried an officer, who peered out
after him. 'I'll be sworn Mahon will get a heavy reprimand for all this
display and ostentation.'

'And why not?' said another. 'Is it when men are arriving half dead with
fatigue, without rations, without billets, glad to snatch a few hours'
rest on the stones of the "Place," that the colonel of a regiment should
travel with all the state of an eastern despot?'

'We might as well have the Monarchy back again,' said an old
weather-beaten captain; 'I say far better, for their vices sat
gracefully and becomingly on those essenced scoundrels, whereas they but
disfigure the plainness of our daily habits.'

'All this is sheer envy, comrades,' broke in a young major of
hussars--'sheer envy; or what is worse, downright hypocrisy. Not one of
us is a whit better or more moral t