"I have already told you that I have no idea of separating. I cannot imagine why you go back to it as you do."
"You drive me back to it."
"You are suddenly developing a temper. This is delightful."
Mrs. Darche made no answer, but occupied herself with her papers in silence. She could hardly account for the humour in which she was answering her husband, seeing that for years she had listened to his disagreeable and brutal sayings without retort. It is impossible to foresee the precise moment at which the worm will turn, the beast refuse its load, and the human heart revolt. Sometimes it never comes at all, and then we call the sufferer a coward. After a pause which lasted several minutes, John renewed the attack.
"I am sorry you will not quarrel any more, it was so refreshing," he said.
"I do not like quarrelling," answered Marion, without looking up. "What good can it do?"
"You are always wanting to do good! Life without contrasts is very insipid."
Mrs. Darche rose from her seat and came and stood by the fireplace.
"John," she said, "something has happened. You are not like yourself. If I can be of any use to you, tell me the truth and I will do all I can. If not, go and ride as you said you would. The fresh air will rest you."
"You are a good creature, my dear," said Darche looking at her curiously.