He left the doctor in the little room which Arden had used as a study, and went back to the drawing-room, feeling that one of the hardest moments of his life had come. Laura was seated in a deep chair, leaning back, her eyes half-closed and her cheeks still wet with tears. She started as Ghisleri entered.
"The doctor has seen him again," he said. "If you are able, it would be better—" He stopped, for he saw that she understood.
They went back together. As they entered the room they heard Arden's weak voice.
"Laura, darling, where are you?" he was asking. Ghisleri saw that he was quite in possession of his faculties and went quietly out, leaving him with his wife and the sister.
"I am here, love," Laura answered, coming swiftly up to his side and supporting him as he tried to sit up.
"It was so long," he said faintly. "I am so glad you have come, dear."
"You must not try to talk. You must not tire yourself."
"It can make no difference now," he answered, letting his head rest upon her shoulder. "I must speak, dear one—this once before I die. Yes, I know I am dying. It is better so. I have had in you all that God has to give, all the happiness of a long life, in these short months."
He paused and drew a painful breath. Laura's face was like alabaster, but she did not break down again now until all was over.
"I owe it all to you—my life's love. You have given me so much, and I have given you so little. But God will give it all back to you, dear, some day. There is one thing I must say—oh, my breath!"