"Yes," I answered. My voice choked with emotion.
"Now we must go home," she said; "I'm afraid they will be back."
She rose, and I followed her down the narrow trail. Once or twice she turned and gave me a bright, tender look. I worshipped her more than ever. Was there ever maid more sweet, more gentle, more quick with anxious love? "Bless her, O bless her," I sighed. "Whatever comes, may she be happy." I adored her, but a great sadness filled my heart, and never a word I spoke.
We reached the cabin, and on the threshold she paused. The others had not yet returned. She held out both hands to me, and her eyes were glittering with tears.
"Be brave, my dearest; it's all for my sake—if you love me."
"I love you, my darling; anything for your sake. I'll go to-morrow."
"We're betrothed now, aren't we, dearest?"
"We're betrothed, my love."
She swayed to me and seemed to fit into my arms as a sword fits into its sheath. My lips lay on hers, and I kissed her with a passionate joy. She took my face between her hands and gazed at me long and earnestly.
"I love you, I love you," she murmured; "next June, my darling, next June."