After a time, she believed in the reality of this comedy. — Emile Zola

In reality, one single thought tormented them: they were irritated at their crime, and in despair at having for ever troubled their lives.

Sometimes, forcing themselves to hope, they sought to resume the burning dreams of other days, and were quite astonished to find they had no imagination.

It was like a lightning flash of passion, swift and blinding in a leaden sky.