He, at that moment—withal he was a seer—fancied Milena falling in his arms; his persevering love had conquered at last. Radonic would now be sent away to sea again, perhaps never to come back, and he would remain the undisputed master of Milena's heart.
"Well, love me a little and I'll change your life from a hell into a heaven. I'll read your slightest wish in your eyes to satisfy it."
"Thank you," she said, shuddering, disengaging herself from his grasp, but feeling herself growing pale.
"What is the matter, my love?" he asked.
"Nothing, only I told you I was not feeling well; my husband almost killed me yesterday."
"Well, I promise that it'll be the last time he touches you."
They had now reached the door of her house, and Vranic, after having renewed his protestations, went off, whilst Milena entered the house and locked herself in.
That evening Radonic came home rather earlier than usual. He was sober, but in a sullen mood, and looked at Milena sheepishly. She set the supper on the table and waited upon him; when he had finished, she took the dish and sat down on the hearth to have her meal.
"Well," quoth Radonic, puffing at his pipe, "have you seen Vranic to-day?"
"Yes, I met him when I was coming home from market."