"Basil," he said, looking very pale, "you must not look at it.

I don't wish you to." "Not look at my own work! You are not serious.

Why shouldn't I look at it ?" exclaimed Hallward, laughing.
"If you try to look at it, Basil, on my word of honour I will never speak to you again as long as I live.

I am quite serious.

I don't offer any explanation, and you are not to ask for any.