But presently in a low voice, "I have heard," she went on, "what you said, Monsieur, after I lost consciousness." "Yes ?" he said; and was silent.

Nor did he lose his watchful look.
"I am obliged to you for your thought of me," she continued in a faint voice, "and I shall be still further obliged--I speak to you thus quickly and thus early--if you will grant me a somewhat longer time." "Do you mean--if I will postpone our marriage ?" "Yes, Monsieur." "It is impossible!" "Do not say that," she cried, raising her voice impulsively.

"I appeal to your generosity.

And for a short, a very short, time only." "It is impossible," he answered quietly.

"And for reasons, Mademoiselle.
In the first place, I can more easily protect my wife.