'Leave the room, sir, and at once! I have told you it was a jest.

If you are a gentleman you will believe me, and go.' And she pointed to the door.
But I held my ground, with an obstinate determination to pierce the mystery.

'I am a gentleman, madame,' I said, 'and yet I must know more.
Until I know more I cannot go.' 'Oh, this is insufferable!' she cried, looking round as if for a way of escape; but I was between her and the only door.

'This is unbearable! The knot was never intended for you, sir.

And what is more, if M.de Bruhl comes and finds you here, you will repent it bitterly.' I saw that she was at least as much concerned on her own account as on mine, and thought myself justified under the circumstances in taking advantage of her fears.