"I am a widow," she continued, very gravely; "I am a woman, and I am alone.

My only protection lies in the courtesy I have a right to expect from men like you.

You have expressed your sympathy; show it then by cheerfully fulfilling my request.

I do not speak in riddles, but very plainly.

You recall to me a moment of great pain, and your presence, the mere fact of my receiving you, seems a disloyalty to the memory of my husband.