Whether you were right or wrong
doesn't affect what I say.'
He spoke with a dull doggedness, as though mental fatigue did not
allow him to say more.
'It's impossible to argue against such a charge,' said Milvain.
'I am convinced it isn't true, and that's all I can answer. But
perhaps you think this extraordinary influence of mine is still
being used against you?'
'I know nothing about it,' Reardon replied, in the same
unmodulated voice.
'Well, as I have told you, this was my first visit to Mrs Yule's
since your wife has been there, and I didn't see her; she isn't
very well, and keeps her room. I'm glad it happened so--that I
didn't meet her. Henceforth I shall keep away from the family
altogether, so long, at all events, as your wife remains with
them. Of course I shan't tell anyone why; that would be
impossible. But you shan't have to fear that I am decrying you.
By Jove! an amiable figure you make of me!'
'I have said what I didn't wish to say, and what I oughtn't to
have said. You must misunderstand me; I can't help it.'
Reardon had been walking for hours, and was, in truth, exhausted.
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