Her face was pale, her bosom heaved—there were tears resting in her eyes.
"One moment," she said, with an evident struggle. "It seems to me, Frank Mansfield, that, before admitting you to your old-time place in my heart, some explanation is due to me."
At the same instant the door was heard to close.
Mrs. Brown had discreetly retired, leaving the lovers alone.
Frank drew back abashed.
"I thought after what you said this afternoon—" he began, hesitatingly.
"That I stood ready to receive you, without explanation, on your old footing? No, sir, nothing of the sort! I have some questions to put to you before that can be done."
"Edna, I am yours—yours body and soul! Ask me what questions you please."
"Then, sir, where have you been during all these weeks? You stand accused of a terrible crime before the world. If you are innocent, why have you not communicated with me? Why have you not come to tell me so before?"
"Edna, I am innocent. I swear it before Almighty God and you, the woman I love."