Christine took off her gloves, because they were a constraint to her, and now, as she gave her two bare hands into those of Mrs. Noel, she said calmly:
“You think it is some little thing—that lack of fortune or a difference in social position is the obstacle. I would not be here now if it were no more than that—for I do love him!”
The last words broke from her as if involuntarily, and the impulse that made her utter them sent the swift tears to her eyes. But she forced them back, and they had no successors.
“And he loves you, too—oh, how he loves you! I wonder if you know.”
“Yes, I know—I know it all. He has shown and proved, as well as told me. We love each other with a complete and perfect love. Even if I have to give him up nothing can take that away.”
“My dear, you need not give him up. I asked my son one question only: ‘Is her honor free from stain?’”
“And what was his answer?”
“‘Absolutely and utterly. She is as stainless as an angel.’ Those were his very words.”
“God bless him for them! God forever bless him!” said Christine. “I know, in his eyes, it is so.”