On the day following Nora again became a messenger between
the husband and wife, and before dinner-time a reconciliation had
been effected. Of course the wife gave way at last; and of course
she gave way so cunningly that the husband received none of the
gratification which he had expected in her surrender. 'Tell him
to come,' Nora had urged. 'Of course he can come if he pleases,'
Emily had replied. Then Nora had told Louis to come, and Louis had
demanded whether, if he did so, the promise which he exacted would
be given. It is to be feared that Nora perverted the truth a little;
but if ever such perversion may be forgiven, forgiveness was due
to her. If they could only be brought together, she was sure that
there would be a reconciliation. They were brought together, and
there was a reconciliation.

'Dearest Emily, I am so glad to come to you,' said the husband,
walking up to his wife in their bed-room, and taking her in his
arms.

'I have been very unhappy, Louis, for the last two days,' said she,
very gravely returning his kiss, but returning it somewhat coldly.

'We have both been unhappy, I am sure,' said he. Then he paused
that the promise might be made to him. He had certainly understood
that it was to be made without reserve as an act on her part which
she had fully consented to perform. But she stood silent, with one
hand on the dressing table, looking away from him, very beautiful,
and dignified too, in her manner; but not, as far as he could judge,
either repentant or submissive. 'Nora said that you would make me
the promise which I ask from you.'