"The very reason why there must be one at all is the secret itself. Will you not believe me if I tell you that it would hurt you very much to know it?"
"It is hard to believe, and I"—she laughed— "I can confess to a reasonable amount of curiosity on the subject."
"Do not be curious," said Brett, very gravely, "please do not be curious. You might find it out and I should never forgive myself."
"But if I forgave you—"
"That would make no difference. That would not make the smallest difference."
"What! Not to you?" Mrs. Darche glanced at him in surprise.
"Not to me," answered Brett with decision. "The harm would be done."
"Utterly incomprehensible!" exclaimed Marion as though speaking to herself. "I cannot help asking you again," she said turning to Brett again. "Tell me, has it anything to do with my husband?"
"Yes it has."
"Then tell me! Tell me, for heaven's sake!" By this time she was growing anxious.