I could not bear it ...

I could not." She paused and looked at him with eyes that demanded an assent.
"I believe you," said the Duke gravely.
She heaved a deep sigh of relief, and went on more quietly--some of its golden tone had returned to her voice: "And then, if you knew how it began ...

the horror of it," she said.
"Poor child!" said the Duke softly.
"Yes, you pity me, but you despise me--you despise me beyond words.

You shall not! I will not have it!" she cried fiercely.
"Believe me, no," said the Duke, in a soothing tone.
"Listen," said Sonia.

"Have you ever been alone--alone in the world?
...