Summary: Chapter XV One evening at dinner, several people inform
Edna that Robert is leaving for Mexico that evening. Edna is
shocked by this news, as she spent all morning with Robert and
he mentioned nothing of his plans. The dinner conversation
splits off into varied stories and questions about Mexico and
its inhabitants, but Edna feels such anguish that the only time
she opens her mouth is to ask Robert what time he will leave.
After finishing her coffee, Edna promptly retires to her
cottage, where she occupies herself with housework and the needs
of her sons. Mrs. Lebrun sends a message requesting that Edna
sit with her until Robert leaves, but Edna replies that she
doesn’t feel well and wants to stay in. Adèle comes down to
check on Edna and agrees that Robert’s abrupt departure seems
unfair and unkind. Unable to persuade Edna to accompany her back
to the main house, Adèle departs unaccompanied to rejoin the
others’ conversation. Robert himself then visits Edna. He bids
her good-bye and is unable to say