"You?"
"So he thinks."
"And he has accused you of the fact; and threatened you?"
"He has."
"With what?"
"With being placed in the hands of justice,—dragged before the public tribunals."
"No matter; you are innocent."
"Still that does not diminish the disgrace of such a report, or the pain and humiliation of being suspected of such a crime."
"At least in danger, shame, or disgrace, your poor Iris can accompany you; she will never forsake you; at such a time her devotion and fidelity will be more than ever necessary to you."
This savage simplicity made Paula shudder, and opened her eyes to a part of the truth; redoubling, therefore, both her prudence and reserve, she extended her hand to Iris, saying,—