She must guard it, not selfishly, but because it was right to do so.

She could feel the sunshine outside, could hear the birds singing.

They said that life still existed, that she also must live on, even if there were no sound of singing in her own heart ever again.
Then she must go back to the East, whence she had come ?--Even if great-hearted Annie would listen to that and take her back, where was the money for the return passage?
How could she ask this man for money, this man whom she had so bitterly deceived?
No, her bridges were burned.
What then was left?
Only the man himself.

And in what capacity?
Husband; or what?
And if not a husband, what?
.

.