You've killed it.

You've killed something sweet and pure and hopeful, just as sure as you breathe." "Oh, Bern! It was a slip.

I never thought--I never thought!" replied Jane.

"How could I tell she didn't know ?" Lassiter suddenly moved forward, and with the beautiful light on his face now strangely luminous, he looked at Jane and Venters and then let his soft, bright gaze rest on Bess.
"Well, I reckon you've all had your say, an' now it's Lassiter's turn.
Why, I was jest praying for this meetin'.

Bess, jest look here." Gently he touched her arm and turned her to face the others, and then outspread his great hand to disclose a shiny, battered gold locket.
"Open it," he said, with a singularly rich voice.
Bess complied, but listlessly.
"Jane--Venters--come closer," went on Lassiter.