Isabel. Didn’t you tell him I was out?
Footman. Yes, m’m. But he said he had orders to wait till you came in.
Isabel. Ah—let me see. (She opens the note.) Ah, yes. (A pause.) Please say that I am on my way now to Mme Fanfreluche’s to give her the answer in person. You may tell the man that I have already started. Do you understand? Already started.
Footman. Yes, m’m.
Isabel. And—wait. (With an effort.) You may tell me when the man has started. I shall wait here till then. Be sure you let me know.
Footman. Yes, m’m. (He goes out.)
Isabel (sinking into a chair and hiding her face). Ah! (After a moment she rises, taking up her gloves and sunshade, and walks toward the window which opens on the lawn.) I’m so tired. (She hesitates and turns back into the room.) Where can I go to? (She sits down again by the tea-table, and bends over the kettle. The clock strikes half-past five.)
Isabel (picking up her sunshade, walks back to the window). If I must meet one of them...
Oberville (speaking in the hall). Thanks. I’ll take tea first. (He enters the room, and pauses doubtfully on seeing Isabel.)
Isabel (stepping towards him with a smile). It’s not that I’ve changed, of course, but only that I happened to have my back to the light. Isn’t that what you are going to say?