His memory has killed his imagination. He
borrows his inspiration from the poets, from Liszt, Wagner, Berlioz,
Richard Strauss. Anyhow, like all musicians of his country, he is too
painfully self-conscious of his nationality."
"You, alone, are responsible for his present ambitions," retorted the
unhappy woman.
"Quite true, my dear friend. I acknowledge it."
"And you say this to my face?"
"Do you wish me to lie?" She did not reply. After a grim pause she burst
forth:--
"Oh, why doesn't he compose an opera, and make a popular name?"
"Richard Wagner Number II!" There were implications of sarcasm in this
which greatly displeased Mrs. Van Kuyp. They strolled on slowly. It was
a melodious summer night; mauve haze screened all but the exquisite
large stars. Soothed despite rebellion, Alixe told herself sharply that
in every duel with this man she was worsted. He said things that
scratched her nerves; yet she forgave. He had not the slightest
attraction for her; nevertheless, when he spoke, she listened, when he
wrote, she read. He ruled the husband through his music; he ruled her
through her husband.
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