"Marvellous cognac this, madame!"
It was the first time it had ever been so complimented, and Madame Defarge knew enough of its antecedents to know better.
She said, however, that the cognac was flattered, and took up her knitting.
The visitor watched her fingers for a few moments, and took the opportunity of observing the place in general.
"You knit with great skill, madame."
"I am accustomed to it."
"A pretty pattern too!"
"You think so?" said madame, looking at him with a smile.
"Decidedly. May one ask what it is for?"
"Pastime," said madame, still looking at him with a smile while her fingers moved nimbly.