And, my love, though it may sound heartless, I would sooner be so divorced from you, than cling to you as a log that must drag you down under the water, and drown you in trouble and care.

I would;--indeed I would.

If you go, of course that kind of thing is over for me.

But the world has more than that,--much more; and I would make myself happy,--yes, my love, I would be happy.

You need not fear that." "But, Lily, why is all this said to me here to-day ?" "Because it is my duty to say it.