That night Maurice wrote to her.
"Paula, I love you. I loved you always. I loved you invulnerable, wise, fortified beyond the wiles of men. How much more do I love you now with your one weak spot—so weak, so absurd that it can only be kissed, and laughed at and adored.
"Paula, my own, the twenty-five years have never existed. There is only one immortal moment—and that is to come.
"Beloved, best beloved, only beloved, I want you so badly.
"MAURICE.
"Besides, you have got to describe me several dresses for my new book."