"Along the quay, behind Notre Dame, she talked to me of her childhood, of her early youth in Dauphiné. It is a subject to which she seldom refers. Her recollection of our meeting is more exact than mine. She recalls forgotten circumstances. I was shy, unsociable and proud in those days.
"'A little absurd, is it not?'
"She replies gravely:
"'I recognized your superiority.'
"'What superiority?'
"She is seeking a definition, which is always embarrassing.
"'The passion to see clearly, but Philippe Lagier had it too; above all the power of never knowing a state of indifference, the wonderful instinct of all the innumerable resources of life.'
"'Thank you,' I said, smiling. 'You are too kind.'
"But she retained her serious expression."
"January 26th: It is all over! Our walks in Paris, our free talks at the fireside, at least for a time. She leaves to-night for London to visit Miss Pearson for three weeks!