Rayel was the first to speak.
"You must be glad to meet again--you have loved each other so long," said he.
Honest Rayel! He knew our hearts--their longings, their histories, and also the vanity and pride that dwelt in them.

Why should there be any concealment between her and me?
"It has been a long time--a very long time to me, Hester, for I have loved you ever since we first met." She turned toward me, her eyes filled with tears, and I drew her to my heart and kissed her fondly.
"We have only known each other as children, Kendric," said she.

"Your heart may change and mine may change--let us wait and see." Then she left us, promising to come again next day..