"I've told you too much now. But you must take care of yourself. No matter what happens you must take care of yourself."
"I don't know if that's so important," said Roger. "I confess I've lost considerable interest in just myself."
"I've—made you—do that?"
"I want to take care of you."
She smiled a smile too old, too cynical for her youthful lips.
"That was a kind thing to say, but——"
"I love you," said Roger bluntly. "I believe you care a little——"
"Don't, don't, don't!" She turned a face toward him full of pleading.
"Do you want to torture me? Can't you see——?" Her voice failed her.
She struggled a moment and turned round; holding back tears and smiling
by sheer force of will, and held out her hand frankly.
"Good-by!"
"I love you," repeated Roger doggedly.