The truth is that
all mortals, and perhaps women especially, feel that a virtuous
resolution, a noble self-denial, must bring with it a spiritual
uplifting which will render it possible to hold to it. The hour of
self-conquest is one of inner exaltation which is so vivid that it is
impossible to realize that it can be otherwise than perpetual; a life
of self-conquest is a continuous struggle against the double doubt
which is the ghost of the short-lived exaltation that promised to be
immortal.
From her reverie, Helen was aroused by a question of Melissa which
almost seemed as if suggested by thought transference.
"Do you know," Melissa asked, "why the commission was not given to Mr.
Herman?"
"The commission?" Helen repeated, so startled by the mention of the
name which had been in her mind that for the moment she did not
comprehend the question.
"Why, for the _America_," returned Melissa. "I thought you knew Mr.
Herman, and Orin said that you had withdrawn."
Helen looked at her with a puzzled air.
"I did withdraw," she said, "but I did not know the matter had been
decided. Who is Orin? Orin Stanton?"
"Yes, he is to make the statue."
"Did he tell you so?"
"Yes, he thinks I helped him by speaking to Mrs. Fenton; but she said
Mr. Calvin already wanted Orin, so it made no difference."
"How long has it been decided?" asked Helen.
Pages:
213
214
215
216
217
218
219
220
221
222
223
224
225
226
227
228
229
230
231
232
233
234
235
236
237