“Grace, in God’s name what do you mean?”
“Answer me! Did my father fall by your hand?”
“Never, as God is my judge!”
The eyes of the woman turned full upon the man, and she asked earnestly:
“Vincent, would you lie to a dying woman?”
“No, not one unkind word ever passed between your father and me.”
“Thank God! Vincent, now I understand all, and—I—believe—you. Hold—me—up—thus! Yes, the shadow of death has blinded me, and the cold chill of the grave is upon me; but I would ask you to forgive me—me, a guilty thing that has so sinned against you. Quick! Hold down your ear and catch my words, for—the papers—all—in cabin—yonder—quick! Forgive me, and—kiss me, Vincent.”
“Red Hand murmured softly:
“Grace, I forgive.”