 Paris shortly before World War I. Wealthy and self-satisfied, Jean Hervey is returning home from work, describing life with his wife of 10 years, Gabrielle; he values her as impassive and stolid. However, that day she s gone, leaving a letter that she s joining a man she loves. Jean is devastated, but within minutes she s returned, telling him that her resolve has failed. Over the next two days, he questions, demands, begs, and parries with her: why did she leave, why did she return, does she love him, did she ever love him, who is her lover, is she passionate with her lover? She s calm as alabaster, reserved. Is she in danger? When she makes an offer, how will he respond?