" Ah, you see"--"Well, what does that prove?" asked Valentine."Nothing," replied Maximilian."Then why did you smile?" Why, you know very well that you...are reflecting on yourself, Valentine." Do you want me to go away?" Ah, no, no. But do not let us lose time; you are the subject on which I wish to speak." True, we must be quick, for we have scarcely ten minutes more to pass together." Ma foi," said Maximilian, in consternation."Yes, you are right; I am but a poor friend to you. What a life I. You will obey me,” he said, thinking, Cross my fingers.Jennifer was silent for about half a minute, then she nodded. “Should I call you David, or maybe Mr. Ransome, or Sir, or Master?”“Anything you feel comfortable with, my little loving submissive. There will be very few things you will be allowed to choose, so I’ll let you decide on that. I will say that I think calling me Mr. Ransome sounds awfully formal and Victorian, but any of the other three would be fine. Now as to our destination, we. Cheap print it may be but I do love it.The picture depicts a party of Parisian dilettantes picnicking in the woods. The central group consists of two men and a lady, to the upper left of which are tracks running deeper and deeper into the ever darkening undergrowth. Behind them is a stream or pool in which a second woman bathes wrapped in what I can only describe as an ill fitting sheet.I abhor this woman. I cannot understand what Manet was thinking when he ruined this perfect picture with her. "I'm OK. Really. Some guys just got a little rough." That's more than a little rough," I said."Look," she snapped, "I don't need your pity." I didn't come over here to give you any." Then what did you come over here to give me?" she asked."Just a little company. Someone to talk to, if you needed it." I don't want to talk." She actually let out a little smile. "I suppose I'll take the company, though." Good," I said, reaching for my lunch. We ate in silence for a bit. I think we were both.