“Yes,” said Milton, “and it almost broke my heart. I owe so much to her.”
“I am no longer jealous of her, and, dear Milton, if you can in any way help her I will love you more than ever, if possible.”
“I need no inspiration to that end,” said Milton, “my own gratitude would urge and compel me to serve her.”
“You are always generous, Milton, and I appreciate you all the more for it.”
“I care not what the world may say,” said Milton, “but humanity needs her, and she shall no longer be buried beneath the weight of a sin for which long ago she paid the awful penalty.”
“I share your opinion with all my heart,” said Marie.
Just about this time Mr. Salmon, having accomplished the mission which had called him to Ouida’s house, returned, and his first glance lighted upon the happy pair, who were totally oblivious to his presence. He turned down another street, with a sigh, and left them undisturbed. He had met with defeat. The girl’s faith had triumphed. He felt he ought to succumb, yet he was proud and stubborn, and even yet there was opposition in his soul.
CHAPTER XXIV. SALE OF “THE MODERN HERCULES.”
Almost immediately after Olivia Winters and Mr. Connors had departed Horatio Nugent returned to Ouida’s presence.