“Naturally I think first of her. I knew that this was not for her good. I knew—please forgive me—I knew she wouldn’t be happy with you. But I couldn’t stop her. She is very wilful.”
“But—”
“But she has—changed, Mr. Malloy! She sees now that she was wrong. She has asked me to tell you so!”
He rose.
“No!” he cried. “No! It’s impossible!”
“She asked me to tell you. She could not bear to do so herself. She—and I too, Mr. Malloy—we both rely upon your—fine feeling to understand. And to go away.”
“But I can’t believe it! Why, only three days ago—”
“I know. But you must believe me. She—it’s so hard to tell you—she doesn’t wish to see you again.”
“Please let me see her!”
“She doesn’t want to see you. I am sure you will understand that it is best so.”