This is where Wharton applies another point of what she considers the ideal of short fiction. Wharton states, “In every good argument one need only probe deep enough to bring one to tears,” since good short fiction such as his should show “a great closeness of plot to depth of form” (29). It is only at the end of “Roman Fever” that Mrs. Slade subtly attempts to inflict pain on Mrs. Ansley through a harsh truth that is finally told to her. Ms. Slade expects her revelation to be greeted by Ms. Ansley with at least some level of shock and dismay. Instead it is Mrs Slade who is surprised. Mrs. Ansley claims that not only had Delphin Slade actually shown up on their date that fateful day all those years ago, but also that her daughter Barbara is, in fact, her daughter. There is a subtle but inherent irony in the fact that Mrs. Slade's cunning not only brought the affair to fruition, but also her revenge forces her to finally realize it after so many years.