"I think you have changed greatly." "Oh, well, one gets a little grey, but--" "No, you misunderstand me!" she interrupted. Tidemand said slowly and looked straight into her eyes: "I wish to God you had understood me as well as I have you, Hanka! Perhaps, then, this would not have become necessary." He buttoned his coat as if preparing to leave, and added: "Now, in regard to the money--" "Yes, dear, here is the money!" she said, and wanted to give him back the bill. For the first time since their interview he tossed his head impatiently and said: "I am not talking about _that_ money now! Kindly make at least an effort to understand me--Whatever money you need shall be sent you as soon as you inform me where to send it." "But, dear me," she said in confusion, "do I have to go away? I thought I could stay in the city. What do you want me to do?" "Whatever is agreeable to you. You will let the children remain here, won't you? I shall take good care of them; you need not worry about that. As for yourself, I suppose you will want to take an apartment somewhere. You know it takes three years, don't you?" She was standing with the bill in her hand, gazing at it abstractedly. She was unable to think clearly; her mind was whirling; but deep down she had a vague feeling of relief--she was free at last! She said nothing; he felt his self-control give way and wanted to get it over with quickly so as not to break down. "Good-bye, then--" He could say no more, but offered her his hand; she took it. "I hope we shall see each other occasionally; but I want to thank you now for everything; this may be the last chance I shall have--I shall send you the money every month." And he put on his hat and went to the door. She followed him with her eyes. Was this Andreas? "Well, I suppose you want to go," she said, bewildered, "and I am standing here delaying you. I suppose we shall have to do as you say--I don't know what I am saying--" Her voice broke suddenly. Tidemand opened the door with trembling hands and let her out. At the foot of the stairs she stopped and let him walk ahead. When he reached the landing he waited for her; then he opened the door with his key and held it for her. When she was inside he said: "Good night, then!"