especially of music. In order that people may occupy themselves together
with the noblest art, music, a certain intimacy is necessary, in which
there is nothing blameworthy. Only a jealous fool of a husband can have
anything to say against it. A husband should not have such thoughts,
and especially should not thrust his nose into these affairs, or prevent
them. And yet, everybody knows that precisely in these occupations,
especially in music, many adulteries originate in our society.

"I had evidently embarrassed them, because for some time I was unable
to say anything. I was like a bottle suddenly turned upside down, from
which the water does not run because it is too full. I wanted to insult
the man, and to drive him away, but I could do nothing of the kind.
On the contrary, I felt that I was disturbing them, and that it was my
fault. I made a presence of approving everything, this time also, thanks
to that strange feeling that forced me to treat him the more amiably in
proportion as his presence was more painful to me. I said that I trusted
to his taste, and I advised my wife to do the same. He remained just as
long as it was necessary in order to efface the unpleasant impression of
my abrupt entrance with a frightened face. He went away with an air of
satisfaction at the conclusions arrived at. As for me, I was perfectly
sure that, in comparison with that which preoccupied them, the question
of music was indifferent to them. I accompanied him with especial
courtesy to the hall (how can one help accompanying a man who has
come to disturb your tranquillity and ruin the happiness of the entire
family?), and I shook his white, soft hand with fervent amiability."



CHAPTER XXII.