This argument in Isabel's inner consciousness continued for several days; and the result of it was that—at a dance at the Gordons'—Isabel flirted outrageously with Mr. Madderley. Paul took it very well at first; he had perfect confidence in Isabel, and he knew that it does not do to pull the reins too tight. Isabel noticed that he took it very well, and put his endurance down to indifference; consequently she flirted harder than ever.
By an almost superhuman effort, Paul refrained from saying a word to Isabel on the subject, and succeeded in being quite kind and courteous when he bade her good-night, though he was in a fury of jealous misery underneath his calm exterior.
Isabel felt certain that such calmness showed that he did not care, and cried herself to sleep that night.
Paul argued that he owed it to Isabel to conceal his anguish.
Isabel argued that he owed it to her to reveal it.
Paul knew that you do not talk about a thing if it really hurts you.
Isabel knew that if a thing really hurts you, you cannot talk about anything else.
All through the following day this wretched state of things continued.
Paul was pale and quiet, and longed to throw himself into the Serpentine.
Isabel was flushed and brilliant, and talked to Lord Wrexham and Mr. Madderley in the Row.