“Oh, here!” he said. “Sit down, I want to talk.” He almost thrust her into the chair and settled himself upon the arm. “All of a sudden you have become something that I want—must have. Spiritually I want you near me—you’re—you’re essential. Without you I am incomplete. If I lost you I should lose more than you—far more. D’you understand?”
“Yes, I understand.”
“Together we could reach any heights, you and I, for you give me the atmosphere I need—the right essence. I used to believe the line, ‘He travels fastest who travels alone,’ but now I scout it—it’s lost its truth for me. I believe you are wrapped up in my happiness and my success; I believe without you they would be in jeopardy—in danger. D’you care for me well enough to take me on those terms?”
Very slowly she replied:
“I want you to have your happiness, Wynne, and your success—I want that to be a true dream.”
“Then—?”
“I’ll accept your spiritual offer—and give you all in return. But won’t you say just one thing more?”
“What have I left unsaid?”
“Did you say you loved me?”
“No,” he replied; “but, in God’s name, I believe I do.”