"Thank you, Mr. McNeil, you are very kind; I will not forget your offered help. I hope you will have a pleasant journey home," and she drew away her hands and turned away.
"Dexie, when we parted in Halifax you gave me angry looks, even at the moment of parting, but there was a hope in my heart that helped me to bear it. It is different now; do not add to my present misery the memory of your cool, indifferent words. Lift up your face and say, 'Good-bye, Hugh.' Do, Dexie."
Dexie stood irresolute a moment, then, giving him her hand, she lifted her eyes, and said in a low tone:
"Good-bye, Hugh; I did not mean to be cool or indifferent, for you have been kinder than I dared to expect."
Something in her tone and words swept Hugh's self-control to the winds, and he clasped her to his heart.
"My darling! my darling! must I indeed say good-bye forever; it is like parting with you at the grave," and his hot kisses touched cheek and brow. "I cannot bear it, Dexie. Oh! if I could die now with you here in my arms; my darling! my darling!"
A soft knock at the door, and a moment later Guy entered.
"Time is up, McNeil, if we want to catch the train." Then putting his arm across Dexie's shoulders, as he noticed her pale face and quivering lips, said:
"Has it been too much for you, dearest? It was the last time, you know."
"How could you, Guy! How could you send him here to me alone!" came the low, trembling words.