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The Morals of Marcus Ordeyne : a Novel by William John Locke
page 29 of 374 (07%)
physical and moral propinquity for one hundred and eighty-six
hours out of the week, each hour surcharged with an obligatory
exchange of responsibilities, interests, sacrifices of every
kind, a being who is not the utter brother of my thoughts and
sister of my dreams--no, never! _Au grand non, au grand jamais!_

Judith is an incomparable woman, but she is not the utter brother
of my thoughts and the sister of my dreams; nor am I of hers.

But the comradeship she gives me is as food and drink, and my
affection fulfils a need in her nature. The delicate adjustment
of reciprocals is our sanction. Marriage, were it possible,
would indeed be fatal. Our pleasant, free relations, unruffled
by storm, are ideal for us both.

Why, I wonder, did she think her proposal to go away for a change
would vex me?

The idea implies a right of veto which is repugnant to me. Of
all the hateful attitudes towards a woman in which a decent man
can view himself that of the Turkish bashaw is the most
detestable. Women seldom give men credit for this distaste.


I kissed the white hand of Judith that touched my wrist, and told
her not to doubt my understanding. She cried a little.

"I don't make your path rougher, Judith?" I whispered.

She checked her tears and her eyes brightened wonderfully.
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