Much has occurred of late to make the keeping of my vow most difficult.

I have been weak, and grievously tempted; and I felt scarce strong enough, even though protected by prayers, to withstand also my deep love for you." Their voices insensibly merged into French, each speaking so rapidly and low that I could get little meaning of it.

Then I noted De Croix, half lying upon the ground, his head hidden within his hands.

With sudden remembrance of the work before us, I touched his shoulder.
"Come below, Monsieur, and help me search for the boat," I said, kindly, for I was truly touched by his grief.

"It will help clear your mind to have some labor to accomplish." "I dare not, Wayland!" he answered hoarsely, and the face he uplifted toward me was strangely white and drawn.