"I have not inquired."
"Why is he here with you?"
"Because it pleases him, not me."
"He brings you some message?"
"So he says."
"What is it?"
"I have not had time to ask."
She stood up. As she became more herself and the spirit rushed forward in her face, I saw how her beauty had ripened. Hoeing corn and washing in the river does not coarsen well-born women. I knew I should feel the sweetness of her presence stinging through me and following me wherever I went in the world.
"Call the priest in, sire. I am afraid I have hindered the interview."
"I did not meet him with my arms open, madame."