She spoke like one under the influence of an emotion so intense that it could not be gainsaid.
"To pretend you admired him, loved him—you!"
"I did admire and love him."
She seemed to be struck dumb by his quiet manner, by the conviction in his voice. In a moment she turned round again toward Malling. Her face had quite changed. It was working nervously. The mouth quivered. She stood for a moment, then suddenly she made for the door. As she passed Malling, she whispered: "The strength—where is it? Oh, I'm afraid of him! I'm afraid of him!"
She disappeared. Almost immediately Mailing heard the street door shut.
"I—I cannot pretend to her," Chichester said, "even in my own house."
He seemed greatly moved, almost on the verge of tears.
"I'll leave you alone," said Mailing. "You need to be alone."
"Thank you! Thank you!" said Chichester.
And without another word he went into the bedroom, shutting the folding-doors behind him.