Her motive was a secret, and therefore, of doubtful interpretation.

Besides, even if she were entirely heart-whole, was that a reason why she should give Julien a favorable reception?
Could she forget the cruel insult to which he had subjected her?
And immediately after that outrageous behavior of his, he had had the stupidity to make a proposal for Claudet.

That was the kind of affront, thought he, that a woman does not easily forgive, and the very idea of presenting himself before her made his heart sink.

He had seen her only at a distance, at the Sunday mass, and every time he had endeavored to catch her eye she had turned away her head.

She also avoided, in every way, any intercourse with the chateau.