You know it, and
you would still be my friend?"
"Answer me one question," he said, gently. "Is this sad story the
result of any fault of yours? Are you in any way to blame for it?"
"No; not in the least. Still, Lord Arleigh, although I do not share the
fault, I share the disgrace--nothing can avert that from me."
"Nothing of the kind," he opposed; "disgrace and yourself are as
incompatible as pitch and a dove's wing."
"But," she continued, wonderingly, "do you quite understand?"
"Yes; the duchess told me the whole story. I understand it, and am truly
grieved for you; I know the duke's share in it and all."
He saw her face grow pale even to the lips.
"And yet you would be my friend--you whom people call proud--you whose
very name is history! I cannot believe it, Lord Arleigh."
There was a wistful look in her eyes, as though she would fain believe
that it were true, yet that she was compelled to plead even against
herself.
"We cannot account for likes or dislikes," he said; "I always look upon
them as nature's guidance as to whom we should love, and whom we should
avoid. The moment I saw you I--liked you.
Pages:
180
181
182
183
184
185
186
187
188
189
190
191
192
193
194
195
196
197
198
199
200
201
202
203
204