“That is a very seductive picture you have drawn, and you know how to present it in the best light. Is there a touch of the fairy about you? Are you in possession of an enchanter’s wand, to be able thus to dispose of the destiny of others? You summon up characters and scenes to suit your fancy. Were I to listen to you, would you be free to realize your programme? To me you appear to be building castles in the air. What would your parents and friends say of this arrangement?” “Oh! they would accept it, there is not the slightest doubt of that. If you only knew how fond they are of me, and how joyfully they would welcome anything giving proof of moderation and wisdom on my part! My father, though rough to outward appearance, is the finest man in the world. He is anxious about my doings, only because of his affection for me, and his anxiety regarding my future welfare. He never gave the least sign of egoism, even when we quarrelled. His own pleasure and peace of mind, even, were subordinated to my interests. Only when he saw that some action of mine which he judged harmful—would injure me in some way, did his anger burst forth against me. He loves me so well that, were he certain my happiness might be assured under honourable conditions, he would sacrifice his own without the slightest hesitation. As for my mother, she is the very embodiment of virtue and goodness.” She bit her lips, and answered with sudden harshness, as though tired of listening to this wealth of praise. “Very fine sentiments, indeed! Then you are not a dutiful son if you have not been in perfect accord with such loving parents.” “I have not been undutiful, though not always reasonable.” “Then what has been lacking to make you so?” “A serious love.” Raising a delicate finger, with threatening gesture, to Marcel, she said— “I am afraid you are anything but a model of virtue!” “Do not judge me ill for having spoken so frankly. That would be neither benevolent or just. For, really, you would form a false idea of me.” She continued, gaily— “Come! I see that you are quite a model, after all!” “Now, you are joking! How changing is your mood! How can one hope to get the better of you?”