That is the best of not really knowing,' she went on, in a sad voice: 'one can go on praying for him, for, perhaps, after all, he may one day come back; not from the dead,--oh no, I do not believe that for a moment; but if he be alive--' her eyes dilating and her manner full of excitement.
I pressed her to tell me about him, adding softly that I could feel for her more than any one else, as I had lost my own twin-brother.

But she looked kindly at me and shook her head.
'Not to-night, I do not feel well enough, and it always makes me so ill and excited to speak about it, and we should not have time.

Perhaps some day, when I get more used to you.

Oh yes, some day, perhaps.' 'Indeed, I do not wish to intrude upon your trouble, Miss Hamilton,' I returned, colouring at this repulse.

But she took my hand and pressed it gently.
'You must not be hurt with me.