“It is not because I love him,” said Maria. “I do love him; I think I always shall. But it is not because of that.”
“I know that. What do you propose doing after you have disclosed yourself?”
“Tell the truth.”
“And then what?”
“I shall talk the matter over with Wollaston and Evelyn, and I think they can be made to see that a quiet divorce will straighten it all out.”
“Not as far as the man's career is concerned, if he marries your sister, and not so far as your sister is concerned. People are prone to believe the worst, as the sparks fly upward.”
“Then they will,” Maria said, obstinately. “I have made up my mind I dare not undertake the responsibility.”
“What will you do afterwards, come back to me?” Miss Blair said, wistfully. “You will come back, will you not, dear?”
“If you wish,” Maria said, with a quick, loving glance at her.
“If I wish!” repeated Miss Blair. “Well, go if you must.”