This dogged and stupid piece of speech was pitiable to hear from Nevil
Beauchamp.
'You think so?' said she; and her glass-like voice rang a tremour in its mildness that swelled through him on the plain submissive note, which was more assent than question.
'I am sure of it. I believe it. I see it. At least I hope so.'
'We are chiefly led by hope,' said Renee.
'At least, if not!' Beauchamp cried. 'And it's not too late. I have no right—I do what I can. I am at your mercy. Judge me later. If I am ever to know what happiness is, it will be with you. It's not too late either way. There is Roland—my brother as much as if you were my wife!'
He begged her to let him have Roland's exact address.
She named the regiment, the corps d'armee, the postal town, and the department.
'Roland will come at a signal,' he pursued; 'we are not bound to consult others.'
Renee formed the French word of 'we' on her tongue.
He talked of Roland and Roland, his affection for him as a brother and as a friend, and Roland's love of them both.