In the Quarter

One evening in May, 1888, the Café des Écoles was even more crowded and more noisy than usual. The marble-topped tables were wet with beer and the din was appalling. Someone shouted to make himself heard. ``Any more news from the Salon?'' ``Yes, '' said Elliott, ``Thaxton's in with a number three. Rhodes is out and takes it hard. Clifford's out too, and takes it -- '' A voice began to chant: Je n'sais comment faire, Comment concillier Ma maitresse et mon père, Le Code et Bullier. ``Drop it! Oh, drop it!'' growled Rhodes, and sent a handful of billiard chalk at the singer.