himself against Carolus by
taking advantage of your terrors, is the fact that the said Carolus is a
Platonist." [Sensation among the men; uproar among the women.]

This declaration of Colline's produced a reaction in favor of Carolus.
The philosopher wished to improve the effect of his eloquent and adroit
defense.

"Now then," he continued, "I do not see what well founded prejudices can
exist against this young man, who, after all, has rendered us a service.
As to myself, who am accused of acting thoughtlessly in wishing to
introduce him among us, I consider this opinion an insult to my dignity.
I have acted in the affair with the wisdom of the serpent; if a formal
vote does not maintain me this character for prudence, I offer my
resignation."

"Do you make it a cabinet question?" asked Marcel.

"I do."

The three consulted, and agreed by common consent to restore to the
philosopher that high reputation for prudence which he claimed. Colline
then gave the floor to Marcel, who, somewhat relieved of his prejudices,
declared that he might perhaps favor the adoption of the report. But
before the decisive and final vote which should open to Carolus the
intimacy of the club, he put to the meeting this amendment:

"WHEREAS, the introduction of a new member into our society is a
grave matter, and a stranger might bring with him some elements of
discord through ignorance of the habits, tempers, and opinions of
his comrades,

RESOLVED, that each member shall pass a say with the said Carolus,
and investigate his manner of life, tastes, literary capacity, and
wardrobe. The members shall afterward communicate their several
impressions, and ballot on his admission accordingly. Moreover,
before complete admission, the said Carolus shall undergo a
noviciate of one month, during which time he shall not have the
right to call us by our first names or take our arm in the street.
On the day of reception, a splendid banquet shall be given at the
expense of the new member, at a cost of not less than twelve
francs."

This amendment was adopted by three votes against one. The same night
Colline went to the cafe early on purpose to be the first to see
Carolus. He had not long to wait for him. Barbemuche soon appeared,
carrying in his hand three huge bouquets of roses.

"Hullo!" cried the astonished Colline. "What do you mean to do with that
garden?"