Hitherto, whilst in reality leading him on, she had seemed to keep him at a distance, with the result that he did not know that it was her fixed intention to marry him.

To her, with some hesitation, he told his plans.

Surprised and frightened into candour, the lady reasoned with him warmly, and when reason failed to move him she did more.

By some subtle movement, with some sudden word, she lifted the veil of her reserve and suffered him to see her heart.
"If you will not stay for aught else," said her troubled eyes, "then, love, stay for me." For a moment he was shaken.

Then he answered the look straight out, as was his nature.
"I never guessed," he said.