grande madame

— “‘Dear Droigel,’ she made reply, ‘the same idea has occurred to me so often, so often, only I could never put it into words. You are right. Somewhere a youth or a maiden is living a wretched life because of the voice given in error to me. I ought never to have been a singer; it is not my rôle in the least.’ / “‘You think that of a grande madame will suit you better?’ I suggested. / “‘I mean to try,’ she answered gaily. ‘Come and see, Droigel, how I support my character.’ / “‘Child,’ I said, ‘if you are really going to try this new life, better leave the old entirely behind you. Between Droigel and Lady ⸺ there is a gulf fixed; but if Mademoiselle ever wants anything in which Droigel can serve her, she has but to hold up her finger and say, “Come.”’