I know the stigma is terrible--I know that the love-story must be hateful to you--I know that the vague sense of disgrace which clings to you even now is almost more than you can bear; but, my darling, since you say you love me so dearly, can you not bear this trial for my sake, if in everything else I please you--if I prove myself a loving, trustful, truthful wife, if I fulfill all my duties so as to reflect honor on you; if I prove a worthy mistress of your household ?" "I cannot," he replied, hoarsely; but there must have been something in his face from which she gathered hope, for she went on, with a ring of passionate love in her voice.
"If, after we had been married, I had found out that you had concealed something from me, do you think that I should have loved you less ?" "I do not think you would, Madaline; but the present case is different--entirely different; it is not for my own sake, but for the honor of my race.

Better a thousand times that my name should die out than that upon it there should be the stain of crime!" "But, Norman--this is a weak argument, I know--a woman's argument--still, listen to it, love--who would know my secret if it were well kept ?" "None; but I should know it," he replied, "and that would be more than sufficient.

Better for all the world to know than for me.

I would not keep such a secret.

I could not.