Between him and this high-hearted woman had conic that which would never be removed; before her he was shamed to eternity.
Never again could he speak with her of truth, of justice, of noble aims; the words would mock him.

Never again could he take her kiss upon his lips without shrinking.

Her way henceforth lay ever further from his own.

What part had she in a life become so base?
What place had she under a roof dishonoured?
If some day she wedded, his existence would be to her a secret shame.

For--worst thought of all--it was whispered to his conscience that she did not credit even what he now told her.