herself on the success of her plea for old-fashioned manners. And yet
there was something that left her more puzzled than satisfied in the
colourless tone with which he answered, "No, I shall remain here for the
present." The processes of his mind were unsociably private, and she
could have fancied for a moment that he was linked with their difficult
friend in some monstrous conspiracy of asceticism.

"Come this evening," she nevertheless bravely resumed. "The rest will
take care of itself. Meanwhile I shall take the liberty of telling my
sister-in-law that I've repeated--in short, that I've put you au fait"

He had a start but he controlled himself, speaking quietly enough. "Tell
her what you please. Nothing you can tell her will affect her conduct."

"Voyons! Do you mean to tell me that a woman young, pretty, sentimental,
neglected, wronged if you will--? I see you don't believe it. Believe
simply in your own opportunity!" she went on. "But for heaven's sake, if
it is to lead anywhere, don't come back with that visage de croquemort.
You look as if you were going to bury your heart--not to offer it to a
pretty woman. You're much better when you smile--you're very nice then.
Come, do yourself justice."

He remained a moment face to face with her, but his expression didn't
change. "I shall do myself justice," he however after an instant made
answer; and abruptly, with a bow, he took his departure.



VII