"For what purpose? We have nothing pleasant to say to each other, and unpleasant conversation injures the nerves more than—black coffee."
She raised her head, and with an effort, to which she brought herself with difficulty, said:
"Things cannot remain as they are. My position—"
With an expression of profoundest astonishment on his face, he interrupted:
"Your position! But your position is brilliant!"
He made a gesture which seemed to indicate everything which was in that drawing-room, and in the whole house; but she blushed deeply, and like one in whom the sensitive place is touched, exclaimed:
"But this is just what—what I do not wish any longer. I have the right to desire to be free, to withdraw, to cast from myself this glitter, and go somewhere."
With all her strength she struggled against the tears which were overpowering her. He repeated with the profoundest astonishment:
"You do not wish? You have the right?"
Everything in him—cheeks, wrinkles on his forehead, pale lips—trembled with excitement now beyond restraint. But he was master of his voice yet. He spoke in low tones, but with a hiss: