And this was spoken most sincerely.
"You think too well of me. I fear—I fear for the consequences."
"Why, dearest Marian?"
"Oh, I fear that when you know me better you may love me less," she answered, in a trembling voice.
"Why should I?"
"Oh! because your love may have been attracted by ideal qualities, with which you yourself have invested me; and when your eyes are opened you may love me less."
"May my soul forever perish the day that I cease to love you!" said Thurston, passionately pressing her to his heart, and sealing his fearful oath upon her pure brow and guileless lips. "And now, beloved! this compact is sealed! Our fates are united forever! Henceforth nothing shall dissever us!"
They were now drawing near the village.
Marian suddenly stopped.
"Dear Thurston," she said, "if you are seen waiting upon me to church do you know what the people will say? They will say that Marian has a new admirer in Mr. Willcoxen—and that will reach your grandfather's ears, and give you trouble."