Dodo instantly undid the clasp, and the girdle fell on to the carpet.
"I do not wear them any more," she said. "Take them, and go."
He stood there for a moment without moving. Then he bent down and picked them up.
"I ask your pardon most humbly," he said. "I am a gentleman, really. Please let me see you put the girdle on again, before I go; and say you forgive me. If your husband knows I am here, ask his pardon for me also."
Some great wave of pity came over Dodo, utterly quenching her anger.
"Oh, Waldenech, you have all my forgiveness, my dear," she said. "But take the jewels."
"I ask you to give me that sign of your forgiveness," he said.
Dodo smiled at him.
"Fasten it yourself, then," she said.