And did not think of repairing the flue either?
Oh yes, I thought about it—but never got any further. Every time I intended to set to work, it seemed just as if a hand held me back. Not to-day, I thought—to-morrow; and nothing ever came of it.
But why did you keep putting it off like that?
Because I was revolving something in my mind. [Slowly, and in a low voice.] Through that little black crack in the chimney, I might, perhaps, force my way upwards—as a builder.
[Looking straight in front of her.] That must have been thrilling.
Almost irresistible—quite irresistible. For at that time it appeared to me a perfectly simple and straightforward matter. I would have had it happen in the winter-time—a little before midday. I was to be out driving Aline in the sleigh. The servants at home would have made huge fires in the stoves.
For, of course, it was to be bitterly cold that day?
Rather biting, yes—and they would want Aline to find it thoroughly snug and warm when she came home.
I suppose she is very chilly by nature?
She is. And as we drove home, we were to see the smoke.