"It's nothing low or dishonorable?"
"No. And it belongs to the big things of life-and death."
"And I cannot know this secret?"
"You cannot know. I have taken an oath."
"And it separates us?"
"Yes."
"But why—if—you—love—me—and I love—you—"
She paused and blushed scarlet. She had told a man her love before he had spoken. But he had spoken! His voice, his tears, his tones had told her.
He looked at her a moment, trembling. He spoke one word at a time as if he had no breath to finish the sentence.
"It's—sweet—to—hear—your—dear—lips—say—that—you—love—me—God knows I love you—you-dear-little-angel-sent-from heaven! I'm not worthy to touch your hand and yet I'm crushing it—I can't help it—I can't-I can't."