26/29 "Tell me who you are." Sorely was I tempted to respond. Almost was I on the point of doing so, when suddenly the thought of how she might shrink from me, of how, even then, she might come to think that I had but simulated love for her for infamous purposes of gain, restrained and silenced me. During the few hours of life that might be left me I would at least be lord and master of her heart. When I was dead--for I had little hope of Castelroux's efforts--it would matter less, and perhaps because I was dead she would be merciful. |