I do not wish to hate her, but
how can I help it? Do you remember when she flew into your arms
in this room?'
'I remember it.'
'Of course you do. It is your great joy now to remember that, and
such like. She must be very good! Though I hate her!'
'Do not say that you hate her, Mabel.'
'Though I hate her she must be good. It was a fine and brave thing
to do. I have done it; but never before the world like that; have
I, Frank? Oh, Frank, I shall never do it again. Go now, and do
not touch me. Let us both pray that in ten years we may meet as
passionate friends.' He came to her hardly knowing what he meant,
but purposing, as though by instinct, to take her hand as he
parted from her. But she, putting both her hands before her face,
and throwing herself on to the sofa, buried her head among the
cushions.
'Is there not to be another word?' he said. Lying as she did, she
still was able to make a movement of dissent and he left her,
muttering just one word between his teeth, 'Mabel, good-bye.'
CHAPTER 78
The Duke Returns to Office
That farewell took place on the Friday morning.
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