despise me, too, like the rest of them—now. And you can despise me. But you will never humble me, any of you.

Why do you accuse me?

[Going to her impulsively.] I am in such suffering. Excuse me if I was rude. I want us to be friends. [She holds out her hands.] Will you?

[Taking her hands.] Gladly.

[Looking at her.] What lovely long eyelashes you have! And your eyes have such a sad expression!

[Smiling.] I see very little with them. They are very weak.

[Warmly.] But beautiful.

I gave it to himself, ma'am.

Did he send a message?

He was just going out, ma'am. He told me to say he'd be here after me.

Thanks.