Tell me that you do not despise me." As he ceased speaking he laid his hand upon my shoulder and peered into my face with a frightened and appealing look.
"Despise you!" I repeated.

"No.

You are dearer to me now than ever.

What you have told me will bring us closer to each other, if we consider it wisely.

As yet there is no pledge between Hester and myself, save the assurance given by unuttered thoughts.