"I also can defend myself," murmured Madame de Lescombat.
"I hope you will not be reduced to that extremity. Now, let us speak plainly. You did not come here out of kindness of heart to offer to restore me my letter; but I will tell you why you did come. You knew that Pierre had your letter, and you anxiously asked yourself if he might not have entrusted it to me. Well, your ruse has proved successful. You know what to think now. What do you propose?"
"I think we ought to come to an understanding."
"I think so, too," replied Blanche. "We have nothing to gain by war, so let us conclude a treaty of peace. We can exchange letters. Give me mine, and I'll give you yours."
"I haven't yours about me," murmured the countess, visibly embarrassed.
"I am surprised that you left it at home. When a person goes to battle she ought not to forget her weapons."
"I had no idea that our conversation would take such a turn."
"Well, as soon as I saw you come in, I guessed the object of your visit; but, as you are not in a position to carry out your part of the compact, we had better let the subject drop."
"You seem to have no confidence in me. Well, as you refuse to give me my letter until I have returned you yours, why not accompany me home? My carriage is at the door. Take my letter, and come with me. The exchange shall take place in my bedroom. Your letter is locked up in my desk there."
"I am greatly obliged to you for your kind offer, but it is impossible for me to leave the house just now. I am expecting a visit."