7/15 There are certain circumstances under which I would not have married any one; these circumstances do not surround my darling. She stands out clear and distinct as a bright jewel from the rest of the world. To-day she promised to be my wife, but she is so sensitive and hesitating that I am almost afraid I shall lose her even now, and I want to marry her as soon as I can." "But why," asked the duchess, "do you tell me this ?" "Because it concerns you most nearly. She lives under your roof--she is, in some measure, your protegee." "Vere will be very angry when he hears of it," said the duchess. And then Lord Arleigh looked up proudly. |