"Is it thus you reply to me?
I have commanded you! Oh! you distort my words as you misconceive my intentions.

I do not command you; I request you." "No, monsieur, you have commanded," said Raoul, persistently; "had you requested me, your request is even more effective than your order.

I have not seen Mademoiselle de la Valliere again." "But you are unhappy! you are unhappy!" insisted Athos.
Raoul made no reply.
"I find you pale; I find you dull.

The sentiment is strong, then ?" "It is a passion," replied Raoul.
"No--a habit." "Monsieur, you know I have traveled much, that I have passed two years far away from her.

A habit would yield to an absence of two years, I believe; whereas, on my return, I loved not more, that was impossible, but as much.