“So much the better.”
“Yes, so much the better. They think they have treated you very well.”
“I have no doubt they might have handled me much more roughly,” said Newman. “I am much obliged to them. Honestly.”
“You are generous,” said Madame de Cintré. “It’s a disagreeable position.”
“For them, you mean. Not for me.”
“For me,” said Madame de Cintré.
“Not when their sins are forgiven!” said Newman. “They don’t think I am as good as they are. I do. But we shan’t quarrel about it.”
“I can’t even agree with you without saying something that has a disagreeable sound. The presumption was against you. That you probably don’t understand.”
Newman sat down and looked at her for some time. “I don’t think I really understand it. But when you say it, I believe it.”
“That’s a poor reason,” said Madame de Cintré, smiling.