“No, Madame.” With each answer the voice grew lower.

“Since when have I been Madame to you?”

“Since to-day.”

Madame reached out a hand and pressed down the screen. “Elsa, what is it?”

“What is what, Madame?”

“This strange mood of yours.”

Silence.

“You were gay enough this morning. Tell me.”

“There is nothing to tell, Madame, save that my sacrifices are at an end. I have nothing left.”

“What! You forsake me when the end is won?” in astonishment.