Let us never speak of it again! No, no! never again!" "And Miriam!" said Kenyon, with irrepressible interest.

"Is it also forbidden to speak of her ?" "Hush! do not even utter her name! Try not to think of it!" Hilda whispered.

"It may bring terrible consequences!" "My dear Hilda!" exclaimed Kenyon, regarding her with wonder and deep sympathy.

"My sweet friend, have you had this secret hidden in your delicate, maidenly heart, through all these many months! No wonder that your life was withering out of you." "It was so, indeed!" said Hilda, shuddering.

"Even now, I sicken at the recollection." "And how could it have come to your knowledge ?" continued the sculptor.
"But no matter! Do not torture yourself with referring to the subject.
Only, if at any time it should be a relief to you, remember that we can speak freely together, for Miriam has herself suggested a confidence between us." "Miriam has suggested this!" exclaimed Hilda.