It happened sometimes when Edna went to see Mademoiselle Reisz that

the little musician was absent, giving a lesson or making some small

necessary household purchase. The key was always left in a secret

hiding-place in the entry, which Edna knew. If Mademoiselle happened to

be away, Edna would usually enter and wait for her return.

When she knocked at Mademoiselle Reisz's door one afternoon there was

no response; so unlocking the door, as usual, she entered and found the

apartment deserted, as she had expected. Her day had been quite filled

up, and it was for a rest, for a refuge, and to talk about Robert, that

she sought out her friend.

She had worked at her canvas--a young Italian character study--all the

morning, completing the work without the model; but there had been many

interruptions, some incident to her modest housekeeping, and others of a

social nature.

Madame Ratignolle had dragged herself over, avoiding the too public

thoroughfares, she said. She complained that Edna had neglected her

much of late. Besides, she was consumed with curiosity to see the little

house and the manner in which it was conducted. She wanted to hear all

about the dinner party; Monsieur Ratignolle had left so early. What had

happened after he left? The champagne and grapes which Edna sent over

were TOO delicious. She had so little appetite; they had refreshed and

toned her stomach. Where on earth was she going to put Mr. Pontellier in

that little house, and the boys? And then she made Edna promise to go to

her when her hour of trial overtook her.

"At any time--any time of the day or night, dear," Edna assured her.

Before leaving Madame Ratignolle said:

"In some way you seem to me like a child, Edna. You seem to act without

a certain amount of reflection which is necessary in this life. That is

the reason I want to say you mustn't mind if I advise you to be a little

careful while you are living here alone. Why don't you have some one

come and stay with you? Wouldn't Mademoiselle Reisz come?"

"No; she wouldn't wish to come, and I shouldn't want her always with

me."

"Well, the reason--you know how evil-minded the world is--someone was

talking of Alcee Arobin visiting you. Of course, it wouldn't matter if

Mr. Arobin had not such a dreadful reputation. Monsieur Ratignolle was

telling me that his attentions alone are considered enough to ruin a

woman s name."

"Does he boast of his successes?" asked Edna, indifferently, squinting

at her picture.

"No, I think not. I believe he is a decent fellow as far as that goes.

But his character is so well known among the men. I shan't be able to

come back and see you; it was very, very imprudent to-day."




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