Pilar was
delighted. She was far too wise not to know that honeymoons do not
last forever, and although she was persuaded that she, for her part,
would never desire anything better than to be always at Wilhelm's
side, passing the time in interminable conversations about herself
and himself, in kissing and fondling, she quite understood that that
was not enough to satisfy a man accustomed to a wider range of
pursuits. She had looked forward with anxiety to the moment when
mere love-making would pall upon him, and he would begin to be
bored, and wish for a change. She had kept a sharp lookout for the
approach of this ticklish moment that her ingenious mind might have
some fresh interest ready for him. This trouble had been spared her.
He himself took thought for a suitable occupation to fill up his
time. So much the better. He had adapted himself to the
circumstances, after all. He no longer looked upon it as a passing
liaison, but had settled down permanently and finally to lead his
accustomed life with her.
It took a weight off her mind, and gave her a sense of peace and
security such as she had not known since the return to Paris. She
too began to come out of her shell, and to resume her former mode of
life. She fulfilled her social duties, and paid and received calls,
which Wilhelm was allowed to shirk.
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