"Why, you seem to have only that name in your mouth. Who spoke to you of La Valliere?"
"If it be not her portrait, then, why do you suppose it would concern me?"
"I do not suppose it will concern you. But you ask me all sorts of questions, and I answer you. You positively will learn all the scandal of the affair, and I tell you—make the best you can of it."
Raoul struck his forehead with his hand in utter despair. "It will kill me!" he said.
"So you have said already."
"Yes, you're right," and he made a step or two as if he were going to leave.
"Where are you going?"
"To look for some one who will tell me the truth."
"Who is that?"
"A woman."