I do not ask, I would not take it. And for
jealousy, what ground have I? A dog-in-the-manger jealousy is a
thing the dogs may laugh at. But at least, in the world's eye, I am
still your husband; and I ask you if you treat me fairly? I keep to
myself, I leave you free, I have given you in everything your will.
What do you in return? I find, Seraphina, that you have been too
thoughtless. But between persons such as we are, in our conspicuous
station, particular care and a particular courtesy are owing.
Scandal is perhaps not easy to avoid; but it is hard to bear.'
'Scandal!' she cried, with a deep breath. 'Scandal! It is for this
you have been driving!'
'I have tried to tell you how I feel,' he replied. 'I have told you
that I love you - love you in vain - a bitter thing for a husband; I
have laid myself open that I might speak without offence. And now
that I have begun, I will go on and finish.'
'I demand it,' she said. 'What is this about?'
Otto flushed crimson. 'I have to say what I would fain not,' he
answered. 'I counsel you to see less of Gondremark.'
'Of Gondremark? And why?' she asked.
'Your intimacy is the ground of scandal, madam,' said Otto, firmly
enough - 'of a scandal that is agony to me, and would be crushing to
your parents if they knew it.'
'You are the first to bring me word of it,' said she. 'I thank
you.
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