Page:The Writings of Prosper Merimee-Volume 1.djvu/246

168 Piennes did not appeal so strongly to his mind. But upon that point it was not necessary to dispute with her. He always carefully avoided revealing to her his doubts, and this time, as usual, he kept silent; it was easy to see however that he was not convinced.

"I will talk to you in the language of the world," pursued Madame de Piennes, "since unfortunately it is the only one which you can comprehend. We will argue, in fact, upon a mathematical calculation. She has nothing to gain by seeing you, but much to lose. Now, make your choice."

"Madam," said Max with a voice of emotion, "you no longer doubt, I hope, that there can be any other sentiment on my part in regard to Arsène but an interest—quite natural. What danger would there be? None whatever. Do you distrust me? Do you think that I wish to injure the good counsels which you give her? No, indeed! I, who detest sad scenes, who avoid them with a sort of abhorrence, do you believe that I seek the sight of a dying girl with culpable intentions? I repeat it, madam, it is for me a sense of duty, an expiation, a punishment if you will, which I seek concerning her."

At those words Madame de Piennes raised her head and regarded him fixedly with an air