For a few hours he was minded to throw the world behind him, and wear this woman, as such a woman should be worn,--as a comforter to him in all things, and a strong shield against great troubles.

"Lily," he said, "my own Lily!" "Yes, your own, to take when you please, and leave untaken while you please; and as much your own in one way as in the other." Then she looked up again, and essayed to laugh as she did so.

"You will think I am frantic, but I am so happy.

I don't care about your going now; indeed I don't.

There; you may go now, this minute, if you like it." And she withdrew her hand from his.