He straightened himself like a man under the lash; but he did not relinquish her hand.
"I can't let you reproach yourself," he said quietly, "because I misunderstood signs that seemed to tell me your heart was awake at last. But now—now you know how it is with me, at least you will let me hope——?"
"I wish I might," she answered, so low that he could scarcely hear. "But—it's impossible!"
"Am I so entirely unworthy—unlovable?"
"No, oh no. It is not that."
"D'you mean—I was not mistaken. Is there—any one else?"
"Yes."
It was impossible to lie to him, and the blood rushed back into her face at the confession.
"Is he here?" Paul demanded, with sudden energy.
"You mustn't ask any questions about—him—about it, please."