He knew how of all things a proud woman hates to know that where she has placed her heart there is no response, and that if she fails to awaken an affection akin to her own, what has been love may be turned to loathing, or at least to indifference.

The strong character of the Duchessa d'Astrardente responded to his touch as he expected.

Her tears ceased to flow, and her scorn rose haughtily against herself.
"It is true.

I am despicable," she said, suddenly.

"You have shown me myself.