She never quite knew how she happened to say that either, whether it was sympathy, whether it was that she loved him, or—Oh, yes, she was quite sure she loved him when she saw that wild joy of expression. She did not shrink from him in the very least when he arose suddenly to his feet and drew her passionately to his breast. It was really very comforting to think that she belonged to some one, and that some one belonged to her, and—loved her.
It was even pleasant to be passionately, lovingly kissed, and as she looked with a smile into his eager, craving eyes, she even lifted her mouth to him of her own accord, and returned the caress while she listened to the burning words that fell from his lips.
"My darling, my wife, I can scarcely believe in the reality of my own happiness. I can scarcely believe it is true, that you love me, that you are mine. It seems to me that I must be dreaming. My God! if it be, let the dream last forever, forever!"
Jessica and Mrs. Chalmers returned before he left her, but there was no announcement made to them that night. They said good-night formally and separated, Carlita going to her room, and Olney returned to his bachelor apartments.
He found Leith there before him, and went immediately to his old friend and put out his hand.
"Congratulate me, old man," he said, with a grin which was half idiotic in its happiness.
"Upon what?" inquired Leith, lazily.
"Miss de Barryos has promised to be my wife."
Leith did not even change color. He put out his hand and took that of his friend cordially.
"Certainly I congratulate you, if you wish it," he said, with his accustomed nonchalant indolence. "But what is the use? The marriage will never take place."