Holt's steady gaze gradually drew Edith's eyes toward him. She read in their soulful depths, only tender entreaty to obey.
With a sudden flood of outraged dignity, she turned to Howard.
"For the first time I must refuse you," she said firmly. "This book is the gift of a noble friend. As such I shall prize it always."
She held out her hand to Mr. Holt, and he took it. Reverently bowing his head, he said quietly, "God bless you both."
Raising it again, he looked toward Howard. His face, angry and tense, was stubbornly averted. He looked toward Edith. She smiled at him gently.
"Goodbye, good friend," she said quietly.
"Goodbye," he said, with a world of sympathy in his voice.
Then he turned, and with slow thoughtful footsteps, walked down the path and was lost to sight.
CHAPTER XVI.
Away From the World, Soul meets Soul.