"And you yourself not convinced...."
She rose to her feet tragically. "How can I be convinced? What is there to convince me? Resemblances—a name—a few records—a few guesses—a few hopes—but I don't know. Who can prove a case of this kind—after nearly twenty-three years?"
In his eagerness to reassure her he stepped near to where she stood. "I hope you understand that I'm not trying to prove anything. I never began this."
"I know you didn't. I feel as if a false position would be as hard on you as it would be on ourselves."
"Then you think the position would be a false one?"
"I'm not saying so. I'm only trying to make you see how impossible it is for me to say I'm sure you're my boy—when I don't know. I'm not a cold-hearted woman. I'm only a tired and frightened one."
"Would it be of any help if I were to withdraw?"
"It wouldn't be of help to my husband."
"Oh, I see! We must consider him."