She made a feeble effort to draw it away, but he held it fast and went on: "Dearest, best Malvine, do not bear me any grudge for this abominable half-hour, and believe me that it is only out of consideration for your life's happiness.

I quite understand how it has all happened.

Your kind heart was filled with pity for me, and in your innocence you gave the pity another name.

It was quite natural that you should be uncertain of yourself, while you thought you were loved by two men, and that the confusion prevented you seeing clearly with your own heart.

Now you know that Paul loves you, and that the day on which he dares call you his will be the first happy one I have had for a year.