But if he had only grappled with it in a proper way!" And then they stopped.

Everywhere there were long shadows lying on the hills, on the roads, on the enclosed fields of olive trees; the shadows of poplars, of wide chestnuts, of farm buildings, of stone walls; and in mid-air the sound of a bell, thin and alert, was like the throbbing pulse of the sunset glow.

Her lips were slightly parted as though in surprise that he should not be looking at her with his usual expression.
His usual expression was unconditionally approving and attentive.

He was in his talks with her the most anxious and deferential of dictators, an attitude that pleased her immensely.

It affirmed her power without detracting from his dignity.