I can bear it better when it comes from a stranger, and is forced upon you without, and even, I think, against your will." The pressure of the arm that clasped her waist, and the hand that held her own, was a sufficient answer to any doubt that might be implied in her last words; and, lifting her eyes to mine, she said-- "I shall always remember this.

I shall always think that you were sorry not to have at least a little while longer alone with me.

It is selfish to feel glad that you are pained; but your sympathy, your sharing my own feeling, comforts me as I never could have been comforted when, as must have happened sooner or later, you had found for yourself another companion." "Child, do you mean to say there is 'no portal to this passage;' and that, however much against my will, I am bound to women I have never seen, and never wish to see ?" "You have signed," replied Eveena gently.

"The contracts are stamped, and are in the official's hands; and you could not attempt to break them without giving mortal offence to the Prince, who has intended you a signal favour.

Besides, these girls themselves have done no wrong, and deserve no affront or unkindness from you." I was silent for some minutes; at first simply astounded at the calm magnanimity which was mingled with her perfect simplicity, then, pondering the possibilities of the situation-- "Can we not escape ?" I said at last, rather to myself than to her.
"Escape!" she repeated with surprise.