But then,
suddenly, without a word of warning--it has always been his way
--appeared my husband. After that, you came with your offer of
shelter and comfort--and you seemed like the angel of the flaming
vengeance. For I had wronged you, dear--robbed you of your
happiness. If I hadn't prepared her mind for leaving you, she
would never have run away. If I had not done this, or if on the
other hand you loved me, Marcus, I should perhaps have looked at
things differently. I am beginning to believe in God and to see
his hand in it all. I couldn't come and live with you as your
wife, Marcus. Things stronger even than my love for you forbid
it. Our life together would not be the sweet and gracious thing
it has always been to me. We have come to the parting of the
ways. I must follow my husband."
I knew she spoke rightly. When she is not swept away to
hysterical action by her temperament, she has a perception
exquisitely keen into the heart of truth.
"The parting of the ways?" said I. "Yes; but can't you rest at
the cross-roads? Can't you lead your present life--your husband
and myself, both, just your friends?"
"Rupert has need of me," she replied very quickly.
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