Even the most ardent of young lovers cannot hold a kiss for ten minutes.

Marie grabbed John's arm. "I have a plan. This General, he is très gentil, and I think he perhaps likes me a little, too. I could ask him to take you as an Aide. You speak much better French than le Capitaine Wilson."

Général Matthieu to Madame Johnson:

You need have no concern, cherie. The girl Marie is charmante, but also a hard worker and gentille. Her teacher spoke well of her as a pupil. If there had been money she would have been a candidate for college. And she is very much in love with your son.

Jean is definitely in love with her as well. From all reports he is an excellent soldier, and should have been commissioned long ago. As a favour both to you and to myself, I could see him as a liason officer on my Staff. It would be the least I could do for an old and dear friend...

Madame Johnson to Général Matthieu:

I cannot express my thanks for all you have done, which was more than I dared ask. As for a position on your Staff for my boy, Jean may well have his own ideas on the subject. He can be very stubborn...