And she shakes her head, and with a single gesture refuses it all.

Why?
Has she a reason to give?
An argument to set up?
A sensible ground for her decision?
No, certainly not." As he looked gravely towards her averted face, Vjera again shook her head, slowly and thoughtfully, with an air of unalterable determination.

He seemed surprised at her obstinacy and watched her in silence for a few moments.
"I see," he said at last, very sadly.

"You think that I do not love you." Vjera made no sign, and a long pause followed during which the Count's features expressed great perplexity.
The day was drawing to its close and the low sun shot level rays through the trees of the Hofgarten, far above the heads of the laughing children, the gossiping nurses and the slowly moving crowd that filled the pavement along the drive in front of the palace.

Vjera and the Count were seated on a bench which was now already in the shade.