"I am sure there is nothing that would change my good opinion of you."
"Ah! but there may be. If you knew how presumptuous I have been! I have a great mind to tell you, if you will first promise me your forgiveness."
"I promise it!" said Grace, in a low voice.
"Then, Miss Dearborn, Grace, forgetting the difference between us, forgetting that you were a rich and brilliant heiress, and I a poor and struggling artist, I confess that I have dared to love you!"
She did not start nor exhibit surprise, for she had been forewarned. Instead she smiled.
"Surely it is not hard to forgive such an offense as that," she said.
"Then you are not angry?" he asked, eagerly.
"No; why should I be when an honorable man—a man of talent—pays me the highest compliment in his power."
"Thank you. You make me very happy," sighed Vernon, with relief. "Ah! if things were different, if you were poor I might hope that you would look upon me with favor."
"Is my fortune such an impediment then, Frederic?" asked Grace, smiling.