"But in order that we may take things in their natural course, tell me first what you were going to do in the northern part of Chili. I was returning from there myself, when I met you, eight months ago, and, as I know it is a region little frequented by travellers, you will understand and excuse a question which might otherwise sound too inquisitive, perhaps." "Before answering this question, madame, it is absolutely necessary that I should give you some insight into my character; otherwise, you might mistake me for a madman." "And why, monsieur?" "Because I am possessed--devoured, perhaps, would be a better word--by such a continual desire to be moving, that for several years past, especially, I have not been able to remain a month in the same place. In short, I have a passion, perhaps I ought rather to say a positive mania, for travel." "Strange to say, I, too, experience the same unconquerable restlessness, the same longing to be continually on the go, the same intense aversion to repose, and, like you, I, myself, have found a most welcome diversion in travel, for several years past," the young woman responded, smothering a sigh. "So you, too, madame, have a horror of the dull, lethargic, monotonous life which reminds one of that of an oyster on his bank, or of a snail in his shell?" "To me torpor and immobility are death itself, yes, worse than death, for, unfortunately, one must be conscious of this apathy of mind and body." "And yet, there are persons--one can scarcely call them living beings--who would gladly remain for months, and even years, in the same place, lost in a sort of dreamy ecstasy, and enjoying what they style the charm of _dolce far niente_." "Yes, monsieur, yes; there are such people, as I know only too well." "So you have had a like experience, madame? So you, too, have seen how hopelessly intractable such persons are,--how they will eventually triumph over the strongest wills?" And the two gazed at each other in a sort of bewilderment, so astonished were they by this strange similarity in their experiences. CHAPTER X. CONTRADICTIONS. The young woman was the first to break the silence. "Let us drop the subject, monsieur," she said, sighing heavily. "It arouses too many painful recollections." "Yes, let us drop it, madame, for I, too, am tortured by many painful recollections from which I am ever striving to escape, for it is cowardly and degrading to permit one's mind to dwell continually upon persons one hates and despises. Ah, madame, I sincerely hope you may never know that mixture of regret, aversion, and love, which renders one's life for ever miserable."