Page:Playinthreexiles00joycrich.djvu/140

130 He sleeps there, too, on a sofa. He slept there last night. I can show you if you don't believe me.

I believe you, of course, Mrs Rowan, when you tell me.

[Sitting down again.] Yes. He is writing. And it must be about something which has come into his life lately—since we came back to Ireland. Some change. Do you know that any change has come into his life? [She looks searchingly at her.] Do you know it or feel it?

[Answers her look steadily.] Mrs Rowan, that is not a question to ask me. If any change has come into his life since he came back you must know and feel it.

You could know it just as well. You are very intimate in this house.

I am not the only person who is intimate here.

[Placing her hand on knee.] So you also hate me, Miss Justice?

[With an effort.] Hate you? I?