"What are you doing that for?" said Florence.
"Because I do not wish to be interrupted; I want to see you alone."
"But I wish you would not lock the door; it is quite unnecessary—no one will come here at present."
"I make certainty sure—that is all," said Bertha. "Don't fuss about the lock. Now, then, Florence, I want to have a straight talk with you; you understand?"
"I suppose I do; but I don't think I can comprehend anything to-night."
"Oh, yes, you can, you certainly can; you must pull yourself together. You went through that ordeal very well, let me tell you. How do you feel now?"
"Miserable," said Florence.
Bertha went up close to her, sat down by her, and, suddenly putting her hand under Florence's chin, raised her face, and looked into her eyes.
"Bah!" she said, "it was a pity I did it for you; you are not worth it."
"What do you mean?" said Florence, turning pale.