Chapter 9

One Sunday, as she was strolling in the Champs Élysées to revive herself after the week's work, out of nowhere she saw a lady strolling with a kid. It was Madame Forestier, still youthful, still lovely, actually beguiling.

Madame Loisel felt profound. Would it be a good idea for her to address her? Indeed, obviously. Also, now that she had paid, she would tell her everything. Same difference either way.

She went dependent upon her.

"Hello, Jeanne."

The other, amazed to be tended to so naturally by this average person, didn't perceive her. She stammered:

"However, - madame - I don't have any idea. You probably committed an error."

"No, I am Mathilde Loisel."

Her companion expressed a cry.

"Gracious! ... my poor Mathilde, how you've changed! ..."

"Indeed, I have had a few difficult situations since I last saw you, and numerous torments ... and all as a result of you! ..."

"Me? How is that possible?"

"You recall that precious stone accessory that you loaned me to wear to the Ministry party?"

"Indeed. Well?"

"All things considered, I lost it."

"Your meaning could be a little clearer. You brought it back."

"I brought you back another precisely like it. Also, it has taken us a decade to pay for it. It was difficult as far as we were concerned, we had very little. In any case, finally it is finished, and I am extremely happy."

Madame Forestier was paralyzed.

"You say that you purchased a jewel neckband to supplant mine?"

"Indeed; you didn't see then, at that point? They were practically the same."

Furthermore, she grinned with glad and blameless joy.

Madame Forestier, profoundly moved, took both her hands.