The Man Thou Gavest by Harriet T. (Harriet Theresa) Comstock
page 43 of 328 (13%)
page 43 of 328 (13%)
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little indifference to opinion--I might have broadened my horizon. But
good Lord! I haven't wasted time. I've studied every detail; nothing has escaped me. This" (he touched his head--a fine, almost noble head, covered by a wealth of white hair), "this has been doing double duty while these" (he pointed to his useless legs) "have refused to play their part. While I felt conscientiously responsible, I stuck to my job; but a man has a right to a little freedom of his own!" Lynda drew so close that her stool touched the chair. She bent her cheek upon the shrivelled hand resting upon the arm. The excitement and feverish banter of Truedale affected her painfully. She reproached herself bitterly for having left him to the mercy of his loneliness and imagination. Her interest in, her resentment for, Conning faded before the pitiful display of feeling expressed in every tone and word of Truedale. The touch of the warm cheek against his hand stirred the man. His eyes softened, his face twitched and, because the young eyes were hidden, he permitted his gaze to rest reverently upon the bowed head. She was the only thing on earth he loved--the only thing that cut through his crust of hardness and despair and made him human. Then, from out the unexpected, he asked: "Lynda, when did you break your engagement to John Morrell?" The girl started, but she did not change her position. She never lied or prevaricated to Truedale--she might keep her own counsel, but when she spoke it was simple truth. "About six months ago." |
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