I have watched and waited more to be sure that
you had a woman's heart than for aught else, though a false sense
of honor kept me true to my pledge. After I met you on the beach I
determined at once to break my odious bond and place myself at
your mercy. You may refuse me in view of my course--you probably
will; but every one in that house there shall know that you
refused me, and your triumph shall be more complete than mine."
She looked into his face with an expression of amazement and
doubt; but instead of coldness, there was now a devotion and
pleading that she had never seen before.
She was too confused and astounded, however, to comprehend his
words immediately, nor could the impression of his hostility pass
away readily.
"You are mocking me," she faltered, scarcely knowing what she
said.
"I cannot blame you that you think me capable of mocking the noble
candor which has cost you so dear, as I can now understand. I
cannot ask you to believe that I appreciate your heroic impulse of
self-sacrifice--your purpose to atone for wrong by inflicting
irreparable wrong on yourself.
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