She does not answer, but she sees that I understand, and that confirms her suspicions.
"'What is the matter with you ?' I ask.
"'Nothing, I am as well as usual,' she answers.
"And at the same time, like a crazy woman, she gives utterance to the silliest remarks, to the most inexplicable explosions of spite.
"Sometimes I am patient, but at other times I break out with anger.

Then her own irritation is launched forth in a flood of insults, in charges of imaginary crimes and all carried to the highest degree by sobs, tears, and retreats through the house to the most improbable spots.

I go to look for her.

I am ashamed before people, before the children, but there is nothing to be done.

She is in a condition where I feel that she is ready for anything.