He moved a little nearer to her; neither was aware of the movement.
"Do you find me sympathetic?"
"Indeed, yes!" Her luminous glance rested on him thoughtfully.
"But you scarcely know me."
"Monsieur, I do know you."
"Through the boy, perhaps—" He spoke with a touch of impatience, but she stopped him with upraised hand.
"You are angry with Max, therefore you must be silent! Anger does not make for true judgment."
"Ah, that's unfair!" He laughed. "'Tis Max who is angry with me! You know I came here to-night with open arms—to find him flown! Still, I am willing to keep them open, and give the kiss of peace whenever he relents—to please you."
"Ah, no, monsieur! To please him. To please him."
"Indeed, no! To please you—and no one else. If I followed my own devices, I'd wait till he comes back, and box his ears. He'd very well deserve it."