"Preludes, as you have often said yourself, dear mamma, are always tiresome. I played for him one of Schumann's fantasies as I never played it before; I felt inspired; I showed myself at the same time bewitching and indifferent. I threw him furtive glances, neither too ardent nor too cold. By slow and insidious steps, by proceeding with much caution I can put him off his guard and take him captive. I am sure of him, I think."
"Then you do not think it will be an easy matter?"
"No, probably not. He has something else on his mind."
"And can you not by your magic art draw from him that which is rooted in his heart?"
"I will try, but it is a difficult part to play."
"I am chagrined to see you doubtful of success so soon."
"Oh, if I absolutely will it, I can succeed! But I shall be obliged to compromise myself. Not in the way you suggested this morning, however. It will suffice to expose myself in the eyes of the world. For the rest, that which Count Alfred said of the chase applies perfectly to my situation. It is not necessary to make any plans in advance to draw on the game. The plan will develop when the time comes. But I have some news for you. Henri is desperately in love with me."
"What Henri?"
"Our neighbour, Segel."
"What, has he dared?"