"I think he might." The cloud of smoke rose higher. "That would have been like him."
"But it wouldn't have been right. The big love we couldn't help, but he once told me that it was our part to keep it holy. If—if—he forgot for a minute, Man-Andy, it was for me to remember. I think I was afraid I might not, and that was why something drove me to Tom, my husband."
Law winced at the constant reiteration of the "husband." It was as if she were forcing him to keep the facts clearly in mind.
"I wouldn't have had my love be anything but what I knew him, Man-Andy. And now I am almost happy thinking of him doing what is right. It's better, even if it is hard."
"Yes, I suppose so!" And Law knew whereof he spoke.
"But you?" he lifted his eyes to Donelle's white, sweet face.
"I? Why, it is all right for me, Man-Andy. You see, there are many kinds of love, and Tom, my husband, why, I love him. He is strong, and oh! so safe. When his country does not need him any more, I will make him happy. I can. I am sure I can, for Tom is not one who wants all. He has had so little in his life that he will be glad, very glad with me. He has the big love, too, Man-Andy."
"You are quite beyond me!" muttered Law. "You and your Mam'selle, you are a pair."
"I love to think that. Mam'selle has been more than a mother to me. I am so glad you know all about us."
Law did know, from Father Mantelle.