"Very good, my dear, but it is not necessary for me to go with him."
"Yes, it is," he replied; "you must go."
Thérèse fancied that she understood: that Palmer deemed this final test necessary. She was surprised and disturbed.
"Will you give me your word of honor," she said, "that you really have important business here?"
"Yes," he replied, "I give you my word."
"Very well, then I will remain."
"No, you must go."
"I do not understand."
"I will explain later, my love. I believe in you as in God, as you see; have confidence in me. Go."
Thérèse hastily made up a small bundle which she tossed into the carriage; then she took her place beside Laurent, calling back to Palmer: