Jane had thrown herself at full length on the bed and lay with her face buried in her hands.

She was talking to herself and had not noticed Martha's footsteps.
"O God! what have I done that this should be sent to me ?" Martha heard her say between her sobs.

"You would be big enough, my beloved, to bear it all for my sake; to take the stain and wear it; but I cannot hurt you--not you, not you, my great, strong, sweet soul.

Your heart aches for me and you would give me all you have, but I could not bear your name without telling you.

You would forgive me, but I could never forgive myself.