for you before we part. For though I refuse your offer utterly, I
appreciate it, and I would make what little return I can. It
would be a sharp pain to me to distress you."

Her gentleness and calm, the magnitude of the offer she was
making stunned me so that I could scarcely speak. There was such
an extraordinary simplicity and generosity in her manner that it
appeared to me more enthralling and bewildering than the most
finished coquetry I had ever known. She gave me opportunities
that the most ardent lover could in his wildest dream desire, and
with the remoteness in her eyes and her still voice she deprived
them of all hope. It kindled in me a flame that made my throat
dry when I tried to speak.

"Vanna, is it a promise? You mean it?"

"If you wish it, yes. But I warn you I think it will not make it
easier for you when the time is over.

"Why two months?"

"Partly because I can afford no more. No! I know what you would
say. Partly because I can spare no more time. But I will give you
that, if you wish, though, honestly, I had very much rather not.
I think it unwise for you. I would protect you if I could -
indeed I would!"

It was my turn to hesitate now. Every moment revealed to me some
new sweetness, some charm that I saw would weave itself into the
very fibre of my I had been! Was I not now a fool? Would it not