That will close the whole affair.' "'Close the whole affair,' she repeated after me, mechanically,--'close the whole affair.' "I was getting heartily tired of this, and had no desire to listen to an echo conversation; so, without answering, I stretched out my hand for it.

She held it towards me, then drew it back and raised it to her heart with the same gesture I had marked when she first opened it,--a gesture as I said, of that, which was less of a caress than a spasm.

Indeed, I think now that it was wholly physical and involuntary.

Then she handed it to me, and, motioning towards the door, said, 'Go!' "I rose, and, infamous as I thought her past deceit, wearied as I was with the interview, small claim as she had upon me for the slightest consideration, I said 'You have done well, Miss Ercildoune! I commend you for your sensible decision, and for your ability, if late, to appreciate the situation.

I wish you all success in life, I am sure; and, permit me to add, a future union with one of your own race, if that will bring you happiness.' "Heavens! what a face and what eyes she turned upon me as, rising, she once more pointed to the door, and cried, 'Go!' And indeed I went,--the girl actually frightened me.
"When I got on to the lawn, I missed my bag and parasol, and had to return for them.