His Avenger Page #2

"His Avenger" is a short story by Guy de Maupassant that explores themes of revenge and morality. The narrative follows a protagonist who is consumed by his desire for vengeance against a man who has wronged him. As the story unfolds, Maupassant delves into the psychological complexities of the characters, revealing the darker sides of human nature. The poignant and often tragic elements highlight the consequences of obsession and the blurred lines between justice and retribution. Through vivid characterization and a gripping plot, Maupassant masterfully examines the effects of personal vendettas on both the avenger and the wrongdoer.

								


She did not reply, but lay there motionless.

He took her by the arm and squeezed it, saying: “Do you understand me, finally? I wish you to reply when I speak to you.”

“I think you are going crazy,” she said nervously, “let me alone!”

He was wild with rage, not knowing what to say, exasperated, and he shook her with all his might, repeating:

“Do you hear me, do you hear me?”

She made an abrupt effort to disengage herself and the tips of her fingers touched her husband's nose. He was furious, thinking she had tried to hit him, and he sprang upon her holding her down; and boxing her ears with all his might, he cried: “Take that, and that, there, there, wretch!”

When he was out of breath and exhausted, he rose and went toward the dressing table to prepare a glass of eau sucree with orange flower, for he felt as if he should faint.

She was weeping in bed, sobbing bitterly, for she felt as if her happiness was over, through her own fault.

Then, amidst her tears, she stammered out:

“Listen, Antoine, come here, I told you a lie, you will understand, listen.”

And prepared to defend herself now, armed with excuses and artifice, she raised her disheveled head with its nightcap all awry.

Turning toward her, he approached, ashamed of having struck her, but feeling in the bottom of his heart as a husband, a relentless hatred toward this woman who had deceived the former husband, Souris.
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