To remain and appear in public would freshen gossip anew.

Come, it is an adventure! I swear it does not lack its appeal to me! Ah, would only that I were younger, and that it were less seemly and sedate! Dear lady, I offer you my apology for coming as I have, but large plans work rapidly at times, and there is little time to wait.

Now there is but one word I can say; that you have courage and decision, I know." He had risen, and unconsciously the young woman also had risen,--balancing, measuring, watching, warding, in this contest, all too unequal.

Suddenly, with a swift and most charming smile she approached him a half step and held out her hand.
"You are a great man, Sir.

Your country has found you great.