Almost ever since memory had returned to him, the sick man had lain with his eyes fastened upon the door leading from his room, and with a look of longing in them that was pathetic beyond description.
When, at length, it opened to admit his wife, his whole face lighted with an expression of joy that nearly made her weep again, but which sent a thrill to her own heart that told her she loved him still, in spite of the irreparable wrong he had done her.
She went to his bed and sat down beside him, gathering one of his lifeless hands into hers, and, bending over him, kissed him on the forehead.
Two great tears welled up from the fountain of his heart and brimmed over upon his cheeks. His wife gently wiped them away and questioned tenderly:
"Will, is there anything you would like me to do for you?"
He closed his eyes slowly, thus signifying that there was, then, opening them again, he glanced toward the nurse.
"Do you wish to be alone with me for a while?" Mrs. Temple inquired.
Yes, the sad eyes signified, and the attendant went immediately out.
"Now, dear, how can I manage to find out just what you want?" said Mrs. Temple, when the door was closed.
Again that intensely yearning look was fastened upon her face, and she instinctively divined his thought at once.