"Mr. Winslow, will you permit me to say it, I think we have united our interest in Marie. I feel that this makes a bond between us which I am sure cannot be without value to either of us. I dare to believe that I may rightfully hold this opinion. Am I right?"
"I cannot relinquish my service to the daughter of my friend Pierre. I can share it with you with pleasure and in all confidence."
"I am very glad of it," she returned. "I must believe that our united service is acceptable to Marie, as well as to her father. She accepts yours no less than mine."
"I must take this opportunity to say good-bye, Miss Gaston. I shall not return by the boat, as I go by train from here."
The approach of their friends prevented any further conversation of a personal or private nature, and with many expressions of regret and surprise on all sides, he boarded the train which soon arrived, and was taken from among them.
Marie and Miss Gaston clung to each other almost as mother and child. In Marie's eyes was the story of her grief. In her friend's heart was the sad doubt that had come into it from the sudden departure of Winslow. From that day began the patient waiting of the mourning Evangeline and the long absence of her Gabriel.