VIII
A leap of the heart and dizziness shot through me and blurred my sight. The reality of Madame de Ferrier's coming to seek me surpassed all imaginings.
She walked with quick accustomed step, parting the second growth in her way, having tracked me from the boat. Seeing my lodge in the ravine she paused, her face changing as the lake changes; and caught her breath. I stood exultant and ashamed down to the ground.
"Monsieur, what are you doing here?" Madame de Ferrier cried out.
"Living, madame," I responded.
"Living? Do you mean you have returned to your old habits?"
"I have returned to the woods, madame."
"You do not intend to stay here?"
"Perhaps."