A thing she could have borne in the outer world, a thing which might have seemed tolerable in the reeking air of Paris or in the gloomy streets of Angers wore here its most appalling aspect.

Henceforth, whatever choice she made, this home, where even in those troublous times she had known naught but peace, must bear a damning stain! Henceforth this day and this hour must come between her and happiness, must brand her brow, and fix her with a deed of which men and women would tell while she lived! Oh, God--pray?
Who said, pray?
"I!" And La Tribe with tears in his eyes held out the keys to her.

"I, Madame," he continued solemnly, his voice broken with emotion.

"For in man is no help.

The strongest man, he who rode yesterday a master of men, a very man of war in his pride and his valour--see him, now, and--" "Don't!" she cried, sharp pain in her voice.