To-day she's in her room, praying." The warnings which I had neglected rose in judgment against me.

I was silent; I was awed.

Before I recovered myself, Cristel entered the kitchen.

Her father whispered, "Look at her!" Of the excitement which had disturbed--I had almost said, profaned--her beautiful face, not a vestige remained.

Pale, composed, resolute, she said, "I am ready," and led the way out.
The man whom she hated offered his arm.