"We might separate, for instance," suggested Mrs. Darche.
John was surprised. He had sometimes wondered whether it were not altogether impossible to irritate his wife's calm temper to some open expression of anger. He had almost succeeded, but he by no means liked the form of retort she had chosen. A separation would not have suited him at all, for in his character the love of his possessions was strong, and he looked upon his wife as an important item in the inventory of his personal property. He hesitated a moment before he answered.
"Of course we might separate, but I do not intend that we should—if I can help it," he added, as though an afterthought had occurred to him.
"You are not doing your best to prevent it," answered Mrs. Darche.
"Oh!—what are my sins? Are you jealous? This begins to interest me."
"No, I am not jealous, you have never given me any cause to be."
"You think that incompatibility of temper would be sufficient ground, then?"
"For a temporary separation—yes."
"Ah—it is to be only temporary? How good you are!"
"It can be permanent, if you like."