“Yes, but not together. One word,” she added resolutely, seeing his expression become fierce. “I will not endure any violence, even of language, from you. I know of old what you are when you lose your temper; and if you insult me I will summon aid, and proclaim who I am.”
“Do you think I am going to strike you?”
“No, because you dare not. But I will not listen to oaths or abuse.”
“What have you to complain of? What is your grievance?”
“I make no complaint. I exercise the liberty I bought so dearly to go where I please and do what I please.”
“And to desert me when I have sacrificed everything for you. I have incurred enormous expenses; alienated my friends; risked my position in society; and broken my mother’s heart for your sake.”
“But for that I would have left you before. I am very sorry.”
“You have heard something in that letter which makes you hope that your husband will take you back. Not a woman in London will speak to you.”
“I tell you I am not going back. Oh, Sholto, dont be so mean. Can we not part with dignity? We have made a mistake. Let us acknowledge it quietly, and go our several ways.”
“I will not be got rid of so easily as you suppose,” he said, his face darkening menacingly. “Do you think I believe in your going out alone from this hotel and living by yourself in a strange city? Come! who is it?”