He sank into his chair with a gesture of unfeigned weariness; and she glanced at his face. Its mingled pain and patience pierced her heart. But when at last he spoke, his voice was natural and controlled.
"I have only one word more to say. I confess I have not the courage to let you go altogether out of my life. Since nothing else is possible, will you at least accept me as your permanent and—devoted friend?"
She turned upon him in frank surprise.
"Do you mean that—really? Can you do it? Men always say——"
He smiled a trifle bitterly.
"Do they? No doubt they are right—for themselves. But I know I have the strength to accept what I ask, or I would not dare ask it. You won't refuse me that much, will you—Honor?"
"No, indeed, no," she answered, greatly moved. "I can deny you nothing that I am not forced to deny you—Paul."
"Ah, there is no woman in the world to compare with you! Let me say it this once, as I may never tell you so again."
He rose in speaking, braced his shoulders, and stood looking down upon her, a strangely glad light in his eyes.