“Yes, but I had not then been released from my promise.”

“That, my child, shows a morbid conscientiousness in you. You were morally released from the moment that I was vindicated. Good-morning, my brave girl! I will see you later! By the way, though—where is your husband?” he suddenly stopped to ask.

“Still at the Court of ——, I think, where he has been Secretary of Legation for nearly two years.”

“Do you ever hear from him?”

“Never.”

“Does he know that you are living?”

“I think not.”

“Then I exonerate him. I have a great deal to say to you, my darling, which I must defer for the present. Good-morning again.”

And the señor bowed himself out.

Lilith took Aunt Sophie’s hand and led her across the hall to a beautiful chamber with an alcove.