Snyder, gliding to him, said but three words:
"Now! At once!"
Then, drawing back, she remained by the door to her room, her whole being concentrated on the scene, her hands clasped as if in prayer.
He came directly to Doré, and lifted her up in his arms, clear of the floor, not rapaciously or uncontrolled, as the acquisition of the other men, but cradling her like a child, tender and strong, his lips on the lightest fluttering golden tress of her hair. She felt no passion, but a great thankfulness; and she closed her eyes.
"Ah, Dodo, how have I ever lived a day from you!" he said rapidly. "Child, how I love you! Poor, tired little child, with such a great strength! How have I ever existed a day away from you?"
Suddenly he set her down reverently, and said firmly:
"Now, put on your coat and hat!"
She looked up at him, too tearfully happy to comprehend.
"Your coat and hat, and come!" he said, smiling his strong adoring smile.
The next moment Snyder had stepped to her side, holding out her coat. She had one arm in, her eyes on him, when suddenly she started away, comprehending.