There was no joyous passion to redeem the situation for which Gaston had risked so much.
They rode, they took excursions in fishing-boats and little sail-boats.
Andree entered into these with zest: talked to the sailors, to Jacques, caressed children, and was not indifferent to the notice she attracted in the village; but was obviously distrait.

Gaston was patient--and unhappy.

So, this was the merchandise for which he had bartered all! But he had a will, he was determined; he had sowed, he would reap his harvest to the useless stubble.
"Do you wish to go back to your work ?" he said quietly, once.
"I have no work," she answered apathetically.

He said no more just then.
The days and weeks went by.

The situation was impossible, not to be understood.