She did not return my kiss, but stood with wondering eyes.

Then in an instant a change came over her face.

I felt her press my hand, and for an instant or two her lips moved, but I heard no words, nor do I think that the unheard words were for my ear; and I bowed my head.
Yet time pressed.

Again I collected my thoughts from this sweet reverie--wherein what gave me not least joy was the perfect trust she showed in me, for that is perhaps the one thing in this world that a man may be proud to win--and said to her: "Marie, you must listen.

I have something to tell you." "Oh, you'll take me away from them ?" she cried, clutching my hand in both of hers.
"I can't now," I answered.