Did she not want me to forget it? Or would she have me remember it? But this seemed like trifling. I turned away bitterly, but she caught me by the arm instantly.
“What are you about to do?� she began. “Don’t abandon me now. I believe in you. I see now why you did it. It was to save me and help me. What would I do, what could I do, without you? I am—� she hesitated, it was hard for her proud spirit, and coming nearer faltered out a few broken words. “I am sorry,� she finished humbly, with downcast head.
“Say no more,� I answered, looking down at the little hand on my sleeve, my soul thrilling to her words and touch. “No harm shall come to you save over my dead body.�
“I believe it.�
“But that is not enough for me to promise. I mean to extricate you from this peril, to save your life if I can, your honor in any case.�
“But how?�
“If the worst came I would kill you with my own hands rather than let you fall into theirs.�
“I would welcome death itself rather than that,� she answered proudly.
“I believe it will not come to that,� I said. “I hope to save you otherwise.�
“But is it possible?�