I know it was not your
fault. I feel for you--oh, believe me, I feel as I have never felt, could
never feel, for myself. It was brought on you by your father, but you
must be the more innocent because he was so guilty. You have had much out
of it, it has helped you on your way. It does not mean so much now.
By-and-by another--an English-peerage may be yours by your own
achievement. Let it go. There is so much left, Harry. It is a small thing
in a world of work. It means nothing to me." Once again, even when she
had given up all hope, seeing what was the bent of his mind--once again
she made essay to win him out of his selfishness. If he would only say,
"I have you left," how she would strive to shut all else out of her life!
He was exasperated. His usual prescience and prudence forsook him. It
angered him that she should press him to an act of sacrifice for the man
who had so great an influence upon her. Perversity possessed him.
Lifelong egotism was too strong for wisdom, or discretion.
Suddenly he caught her hands in both of his and said hoarsely: "Do you
love me--answer me, do you love me with all your heart and soul? The
truth now, as though it were your last word on earth.
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