between you and me. If you will only say that you can forgive me for the
great wrong I have done you, there will be a heavy burden lifted from my
heart; and whatever you may think now, I cannot doubt that in the future
you will find some one far better worthy of your love than ever I could
have been."

"That is the stereotyped form of consolation, Marian, a man is always
referred to--that shadowy and perfect creature who is to appear in the
future, and heal all his wounds. There will be no such after-love for me.
I staked all when I played the great game; and have lost all. But why
cannot I be your friend, Marian?"

"Can you forgive my husband for his part in the wrong that has been done
you? Can you be his friend, knowing what he has done?"

"No!" Gilbert answered fiercely between his set teeth. "I can forgive
your weakness, but not the man's treachery."

"Then you can never be mine," Marian said firmly.

"Remember, I am not talking of a common friendship, a friendship of daily
association. I offer myself to you as refuge in the hour of trouble, a
counsellor in perplexity, a brother always waiting in the background of
your life to protect or serve you. Of course, it is quite possible you
may never have need of protection or service--God knows, I wish you all
happiness--but there are not many lives quite free from trouble, and the
day may come in which you will want a friend."

"If it ever does, I will remember your goodness."