"So they say, madam."
"Mr. Fogg," said Aouda, rising and extending her hand to him, "do you care to possess at the same time a relative and a friend? Will you take me for your wife?"
Mr. Fogg had risen also. There was an unusual gleam in his eyes, and his lips trembled. Aouda looked at him. In this regard of a noble woman, who had dared everything to save the man to whom she owed her life, her sincerity, firmness, and sweetness were all apparent. He was at first astonished, and then completely overcome. For a moment his eyes closed, as if to avoid her glance, and when he opened them again he said simply:
"I love you. By all I hold sacred, I love you dearly; and I am yours for ever."
"Ah!" exclaimed Mrs. Aouda, as she pressed her hand upon her bosom.
Passe-partout was immediately summoned. Mr. Fogg was still holding the lady's hand. Passe-partout understood it all, and his face became radiant.
Mr. Fogg asked him if it were too late to notify the Rev. Samuel
Wilson, of Marylebone Church, about the wedding.
Passe-partout smiled, as he replied, "It is never too late." It was then five minutes past eight.
"Will the wedding take place to-morrow, Monday?" he said
"Shall we say to-morrow?" asked Mr. Fogg, turning to Aouda.