Grantaire leads Irma in the direction indicated, beaming at the unexpected gift of walking with this woman on his arm. He is half-convinced that the girl must be a bit mad (how else could she so swiftly consent to bringing him into her company?), but then, most girls are. Even if she is mad, she is exceptionally lovely, with a keenness that cannot be overlooked. These qualities mark her as a lady whose favors are well worth the extra effort of courtship. From time to time, he quite enjoys playing the role of the suitor and can withstand the frivolities that come before more tangible pleasures.

"I should not dream of violating the sanctity of such a kingdom. I count myself more than content to bask in the warmth of your light until we must part (such a sad occurrence that will be! I dare not think on it, I will not!), and to hold the honor of serving as escort to such a wondrous fine lady. It is more than an ogre of my ilk has any call to dream on, and you may be certain that I will hold this day as dear within my heart."