"Perhaps," the low voice scarcely audible, "I may love you too well." "You mean there is something--some person, perhaps--standing between ?" She looked frankly at him.

"I do mean just that.

I am not heartless, and I sincerely wish we had never met; but this must be the end." "The end?
And with no explanation ?" "There is no other way." He could perceive tears in her eyes, although she spoke bravely.

"Nor can I explain, for all is not clear even to me.

But this I know, there is a barrier between us insurmountable; not even the power of love can overcome it; and I appeal to you to ask me no more." It was impossible for him to doubt her sober earnestness, or the depth of her feelings; the full truth in her words was pictured upon her face, and in the pathetic appeal of her eyes.