The invalid turned back on her pillow, cast an agonizing glance of gratitude upon her friend, and holding out her hand murmured.
"Heaven bless you, dearest."
[XVI.]
[THE HOUR OF GLOOM.]
The interview with Cary Singleton was not delayed a moment. Both he and Pauline desired that Zulma should be present, but she imagined a pressing pretext and glided out of the chamber. As she did so, her face was irradiated. Meeting Batoche in the passage, near the entrance to the house, she threw herself upon his neck and burst into silent tears.
"Courage, mademoiselle," he said in a pathetic voice. "You have been magnificent, and shall have your reward. Courage."
"It is over, Batoche. A momentary weakness which I could not resist. I am happier now than I ever was in my life."
Batoche looked at her with admiration and whispered:—
"There was only one way of saving her life."