in the act.

Oh, it's hateful!" "Come, come, how sensitive you are!" said the Duke, in a soothing, almost caressing tone.

His eyes, resting on her charming, troubled face, were glowing with a warm admiration.
"Yes; it's silly," said Sonia; "but you noticed his eyes--the hunted look in them?
You pitied him, didn't you?
For you are kind at bottom." "Why at bottom ?" said the Duke.
"Oh, I said at bottom because you look sarcastic, and at first sight you're so cold.

But often that's only the mask of those who have suffered the most....

They are the most indulgent," said Sonia slowly, hesitating, picking her words.
"Yes, I suppose they are," said the Duke thoughtfully.
"It's because when one has suffered one understands....