, for the Academy, a subject of observation
well calculated to arouse curiosity. Madame Anserre never cut it
herself. That function always fell to the lot of one or other of the
illustrious guests. The particular duty, which was supposed to carry
with it honorable distinction, was performed by each person for a
pretty long period, in one case for three months, scarcely ever for
more; and it was noticed that the privilege of "cutting the cake"
carried with it a heap of other marks of superiority--a sort of
royalty, or rather very accentuated vice-royalty.

The reigning cutter spoke in a haughty tone, with an air of marked
command; and all the favors of the mistress of the house were for him
alone.

These happy individuals were in moments of intimacy described in
hushed tones behind doors as the "favorites of the cake," and every
change of favorite introduced into the Academy a sort of revolution.
The knife was a scepter, the pastry an emblem; the chosen ones were
congratulated. The agriculturists never cut the cake. Monsieur himself
was always excluded, although he ate his share.

The cake was cut in succession by poets, by painters, and by
novelists. A great musician had the privilege of measuring the
portions of the cake for some time; an ambassador succeeded him.
Sometimes a man less well-known, but elegant and sought after, one of
those who are called according to the different epochs, "true
gentleman," or "perfect knight," or "dandy," or something else, seated
himself, in his turn, before the symbolic cake. Each of them, during
his ephemeral reign, exhibited greater consideration towards the
husband; then, when the hour of his fall had arrived, he passed on the
knife towards the other and mingled once more with the crowd of
followers and admirers of the "beautiful Madame Anserre."

This state of things lasted a long time, but comets do not always
shine with the same brilliance. Everything gets worn out in society.
One would have said that gradually the eagerness of the cutters grew
feebler; they seemed to hesitate at times when the tray was held out
to them; this office, once so much coveted, became less and less
desired. It was retained for a shorter time; they appeared to be less
proud of it.

Madame Anserre was prodigal of smiles and civilities. Alas! no one was
found any longer to cut it voluntarily. The new comers seemed to
decline the honor. The "old favorites" reappeared one by one like
dethroned princ