‘Not half so good as you deserve. Now listen—I have settled it. You shall return to the stage.’
She started in amazement.
‘No, no!’
‘But yes! Your divine gift shall not perish from want of use; you shall go back to the Art which you so love, and I—I shall be by, to rejoice in your happiness and your success.’
Instead of receiving the proposal with joy, as he had anticipated, Madeline rose, trembling and very pale.
‘Do not decide hastily,’ said Forster, gently, ‘but think it well over.’
‘It is quite unnecessary—I shall never act again; never! never!’
‘Madeline!’
‘I have disgraced you enough already.’
‘Disgraced me—God forbid! Madeline, you are my pride, my treasure—only honour can come to me through you. Don’t think I am such a Philistine as to underrate your gifts, or the art you delight to follow. When I persuaded you to adopt this quiet life, I thought it might be better for your peace of mind, for your health. I see that I was wrong. Genius like yours cannot be contented with the mere humdrum of an English home. I was selfish, dear. You shall be my Imogen again, and, as I said, I will share your happy triumphs.’