He hugged and embraced me, trying to overcome my resistance.
What do you mean by saying, “Is that all?” Don't you think that is enough?
You do not understand me. I only wish to know whether he struck you.
Oh, no. I am not afraid of that from him; but luckily I was able to ring the bell.
What a thing to do! [_Smiles_.] And when the servant came, did you ask him to show your husband out?
Oh, no, my dear Madame; it is all exceedingly painful to me, but I cannot help realizing the grotesqueness of the situation. Pardon me,--and what then?
I ordered my carriage. And then, as soon as Joseph had gone out, my husband said, with that arrogant air which you know so well in him, “Today, or to-morrow--it matters not which.”
Yes, because since then I have locked myself in my room as soon as I heard him coming in.
Oh, yes, several times, but only for a few minutes each time.
Little or nothing. He either sneers or insolently asks whether I am less savage to-day. Last night at the table he brought out a little book, which he read during dinner. As I did not wish to appear embarrassed or anxious, and desired to maintain my dignity, I said: “Your manners toward me are certainly exceedingly courteous.” He smiled and replied: “What did you say?” “It is strange that, for reading, you should choose the time that we are together,” I said. He answered: “Great heavens! It is all your fault, since you do not care to be amiable. Besides, this little book is very interesting. It is the Civil Code. Perhaps you would like to become acquainted with some clauses in it. They would certainly interest you.” Then he read me the law concerning marriage; the duties of a wife and the rights of a husband. Then he looked me full in the face, and asked me whether I understood. I answered in the same tone that I understood too much,--especially did I understand the kind of man I had married. Then I went out and I have not seen him since.
No. He lunched alone. As for myself, I have thought over the situation, and have decided not to meet him _tête-à-tête_ any more.
But are you quite sure that at bottom his attitude is not induced by anger, by wounded vanity, by disappointment, and perhaps by a little bravado? Possibly he will behave himself better in future. To-night he is at the Opéra. The Santelli has scored a great success in “Mahomet,” and I think she has invited him to supper after the performance. Now, if the supper is very much to his taste, he will probably be in good humor when he comes home.