But a confession full and complete my duty to others compelled me to enforce.

The story of the next hour I never told or can tell.

To one only did I give a confidence that would have rendered explanation natural; and that one was the last to whom I could have spoken on this subject.

Enough that the charming infantine simplicity had disguised an elaborate treachery of which I reluctantly learned that human nature is capable.

The caressed and caressing child had sold my life, if not her own soul, for the promise of wealth that could purchase nothing I denied her, and of the first place among the women of her world.