"No, Jean, no; he could not have meant that, I assure you; you do not understand. In any case, you will not do it! Say that you will never do it."
She waited for the answer, which did not come.
"Jean, for pity's sake answer me! Promise me that you will not leave us! Oh! what would the house be without my son now? I have only you—you do not think I am miserable enough then? Jean, look at me!"
He could not wholly resist her. She saw the eyes of her son looking at her tenderly.
"I love you with all my heart," said Jean.
"I know it; but do not go away!"
"I pity you and respect you."
"Do not go away!"
And as he said no more she moved away.
"You will promise nothing. You are hard—you also are like——"