"I have to think of you." "And I of them," she answered firmly.

"Nor is that all.

Were they not here, it could not be.

My word is passed--though a moment ago, Monsieur, in the joy of seeing you I forgot it.

And how," she continued, "if I keep not my word, can I expect him to keep his?
Or how, if I am ready to break the bond, on this happening which I never expected, can I hold him to conditions which he loves as little--as little as I love him ?" Her voice dropped piteously on the last words; her eyes, craving her lover's pardon, sought his.