Philip went at once to Dora; her pallor frightened him. Taking her hands in his own, he said—
"Well, darling, how do you feel? You look tired; keep up your courage, we are going to supper now. In an hour's time you will be free to rest—you must not get up to-morrow; the next day you will feel nothing more of it. Everything has gone beautifully, everybody is delighted with the evening they have passed. The General is interested in my shell—I am convinced that Russia will offer me a fortune for it; but why do you look at me in that way?"
"I am tired to death; I don't feel well; I cannot go on any longer."
"Have courage, dear; it is nearly over. The hour has come when you can do great things for me; a wife can be of such help to her husband—with a little diplomacy."
Dora shuddered—it was the phrase which she had just heard. The room seemed to swim round as she heard Philip repeat the words.
"What do you want me to do?"
"Why, nothing very difficult for you,—help me with a few smiles; invite the General to come and see us sometimes. Why do you look at me in that strange fashion?"
"You want me to ask that man to come and see me as a friend, after what I have told you?"
"Why not?" said Philip. "Come, be a good girl; when I have sold my invention, I will never think of anything but you and my painting. I shall install myself in the most sumptuous studio that ever inspired an artist. Forgive me my thirst for a little more wealth. I shall soon have quenched it for ever. You will help me, won't you?"
"Once more, what is it you would have me to do?"