"I don't think you'll really object either to your brother's or to your niece's marrying, when the time comes for them to do so; and as regards Pansy I'm confident that we shall some day have the pleasure of looking for a husband for her together.

Your large acquaintance will be a great help." "Yes, I'm irritated," the Countess answered.

"You often irritate me.
Your own coolness is fabulous.

You're a strange woman." "It's much better that we should always act together," Madame Merle went on.
"Do you mean that as a threat ?" asked the Countess rising.

Madame Merle shook her head as for quiet amusement.