Chauvenet stared mutely as Armitage paused
with his back to the Claiborne gate. Chauvenet was dressed with his usual
care, and wore the latest carnation in the lapel of his top-coat. He
struck the ground with his stick, his look of astonishment passed, and he
smiled pleasantly as he returned Armitage's salutation.
"My dear Armitage!" he murmured.
"I didn't go to Mexico after all, my good Chauvenet. The place is full of
fevers; I couldn't take the risk."
"He is indeed a wise man who safeguards his health," replied the other.
"You are quite right. And when one has had many narrow escapes, one may
be excused for exercising rather particular care. Do you not find it so?"
mocked Armitage.
"My dear fellow, my life is one long fight against ennui. Danger,
excitement, the hazard of my precious life--such pleasures of late have
been denied me."
"But you are young and of intrepid spirit, Monsieur. It would be quite
surprising if some perilous adventure did not overtake you before the
silver gets in your hair."
"Ah! I assure you the speculation interests me; but I must trouble you to
let me pass," continued Chauvenet, in the same tone.
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