"The fruit is a tender care; the bud a careless pleasure," she replied. "Tell me about it—now. I might not see you again."
"Then you will soon forget."
"Oh, no, I can't forget you. You have had a strong influence on me—for good, I am sure. You have some noble purpose, hidden away, and when we meet one with a noble purpose we feel stronger, though we may not know what that purpose is. I long to do something in the world, too——"
"Then love your husband," said the tactless man.
"What are you saying? I do love him."
"If you love him, you have a noble purpose."
"But who are you to talk so morally?"
"A man who has seen so much vice that he would like to see virtue. There's my road," he said, pointing to the gate. "I must bid you good-bye."