"But since I have come to know you I have forgiven him.

I am grateful to him.

If it hadn't been for what he did I might never have learned to appreciate you, to--" "Don't--_please_!" she said in the tone that is from an aching heart.
"Don't say any more." Arthur was astounded.

He looked at her for the first time since he began; instantly fear was shaking his self-confidence at its foundations.
"Madelene!" he exclaimed.

"I know that you love me!" She hid her face in her hands--the sight of them, long and narrow and strong, filled him with the longing to seize them, to feel the throb of their life thrill from them into him, troop through and through him like victory-bringing legions into a besieged city.