She raised the hand folded in her own, and bowed her head upon it.
"You have my promise. Without your permission, I will mention our meeting to no one. I trust you; and perhaps if you would trust me, I might render you some aid."
"The day may come, when I can find it compatible with duty to tell you the secret of my life. In future years, when you are a happy wife, I shall by God's help be able to seek you and your husband, and thank you both for many kindnesses. I pray that you may be as happy as you deserve."
There was no tremor in the voice that answered quickly.
"If you refer to Mr. Dunbar, you have been led astray by the gossip in X——. Once, there seemed a probability that our lives might be united; but long ago, we found that ardent friendship could not take the place of love; and rather more than three years have passed since we have even seen each other."
With a startled movement Beryl dropped her companion's fingers, and laid a hand on her shoulder.
"Oh! do not tell me that you have broken your engagement!"
The two looked steadily at each other, and while Leo's proud face gave no hint of pain or embarrassment, Beryl's blanched, quivered.
"How did you know that any engagement ever existed?"
"All X——knew it. Mrs. Singleton and Sister Serena told me."