Oh, Madaline, how can I tell you ?" The sight of his terrible agitation seemed to calm her; she took his hand in hers.
"Do not think of me," she said--"think of yourself.

I can bear what you can bear.

Let me share your trouble, whatever it may be, my husband." He looked at the sweet, pleading face.

How could he dash the light and brightness from it?
How could he slay her with the cruel story he had to tell.

Then, in a low, hoarse voice, he said: "You must know all, and I cannot say it.