“I loved him very much when he came,” said Le Grande, “although I did not want him. I had been told I could have a career on the stage. Ah, my dear, I chose the career—and look at me! What have I? A grave in the cemetery back there, and on it roses sent me by a man I loathe! If I could live it over again!”
The answer was very close now:—
“Would you stay at home?”
“Who knows, I being I? And my husband did not love me. It was the boy always. There is only one thing worth while—the love of a good man. I have lived, lived hard. And I know.”
“But supposing that one has real ability—I mean some achievement already, and a promise—”
Le Grande turned and looked at Harmony shrewdly.
“I see. You are a musician, I believe?”
“Yes.”
“And—it is Dr. Byrne?”
“Yes.”