There was something of crystal hardness in her eyes.
But the man was undaunted.

"Because you have wronged me, and you owe me reparation." "I--have wronged--you!" She spoke the words slowly, still looking him in the eyes.
He made an abrupt gesture as of holding back some inner force that strongly urged him.

"I am not one of your persecutors," he said.

"I have never in my life presumed to judge you--far less condemn you." His voice vibrated as though some emotion fought fiercely for the mastery.

They stood facing each other in what might have been open antagonism but for that deep quiver in the man's voice.
Stella spoke after the lapse of seconds.