Again, some interval may have elapsed. If the former scene had caused temporary estrangement, Samson was now willing to return to Delilah. She doubtless still continued her jest that she had no ulterior motive in seeking his secret, but used her failure in discovering that secret as a means of reproaching him for his lack of love for her. “Instead of loving me as you profess to do,” she insisted, “you are mocking me.” And thus she continued to wear away his reluctance to reveal the truth about his great power.