Chapter 38 Summary

Paula is the National Gallery, waiting to meet Richard. He had suggested on a postcard to her that they meet here to talk. Having arrived early, Paula is anxious and faint. Richard comes in and sits beside her in front of the Bronzino picture. Telling her that he'd like to start businesslike, he asks her if Ducane has told her about the Radeechy affair and whether she thinks he should give himself in. After they have discussed this, he says, they can talk about what they will do personally.

Not having expected to make any judgments about the events, Paula thinks for a moment, but tells him that she doesn't think anything else is necessary. With that ended, they turn to their relationship. Richard says that he wants to come back if Paula wants him back. She says yes, but their yeses are...