"We will see," replied she; "but, meanwhile, I do not intend to change, and neither will I allow Jeannet to be insulted in my presence; it is not the first time I have told you so, M. Isidore."
"And so you are capable of becoming seriously angry with me, who adores you, on account of your pretended brother?"
"If you are unreasonable and unjust," said she resolutely, "I will no longer love you."
"You scarcely love me now," said he sullenly. "I did not believe that the day would ever come when you could think so little of me."
"I have always thought," she replied, "that husband and wife should agree upon all points. Ever since I can remember, I have always had a respect and friendship for Jean-Louis, and never has he behaved otherwise than well in this house, where he is looked upon as a son. I don't know why my marriage should change my feelings in regard to him; and that is a question I confess we had better settle at once before going any further.
"Very well," said M. Isidore, speaking like one who had suddenly decided upon some plan. "I am very sorry to be obliged to pain you, but I will not bother myself about this bast—about this Jean-Louis, and that because it is time you should know the truth about him; he is far from being worthy of your esteem, my dear Jeanne."
"Oh! indeed!" said she. "Here is something very new; and the proof, if you please?"
"You insist upon knowing it?"
"Absolutely and quickly," replied Jeannette, who began to grow impatient.
"You will certainly be grieved, and there is reason for it," said Isidore in a sad tone. "Know, then, that this Jean-Louis, whom you fancy dying with grief because he no longer sees you, is all the while enjoying himself immensely."