My behavior has perhaps aroused an impression which it should not have done.

There is no doubt that I ought not to have shown you how warm my friendship is for you--for you, a good and beautiful girl, who have inspired my best friend with such a love; but really I considered that so long as the engagement between you and Paul was not clearly arranged, that you would understand my position.

If I seemed happy to be near you, it was because I told myself how happy my friend would be when he could call you his own; if you seemed to read warmth and tenderness when I looked at you, it was because I was and am so grateful to you for so happily influencing Paul." While he was speaking Malvine had sunk back in her corner, and had closed her eyes with a deep sigh.

A few large tears began to roll down her cheeks.

Wilhelm touched her hand, which was cold as ice.