"I have come at the solicitation of my brother," she replied, "to bid you farewell."
"Forever?" he asked.
"Yes. I thought I owed this much to you, but I wish it understood that we can only meet in future as strangers.
"I am to be married to Lord Maltravers. It is against my will, I admit that—"
"Oh! Lena," interrupted her brother, passionately. "You always professed some liking for me. Why will you persist in this ill-advised match?"
"Simply because it is my duty. My mother insists upon it. I sacrifice my inclination and my love."
It was evident from her manner and appearance that the poor girl was suffering terribly.
"Is there no hope for me?" asked Jack, as he choked back a sob.
"None," she answered in a stony voice. "Learn to forget me."
"I cannot do it. I have every reason to believe that I have been something to you. Can you so easily forget me?"