His face darkened still more, for he remembered what he was, and
how little this young and lovely girl had in common with him.
"Answer me truly," he insisted; "why should you wish my society?
I've not a particle of vanity. I know what I am, and you undoubtedly
know also. If you wish to advise me and preach at me, let me
tell you plainly but courteously that your efforts, however, well
intentioned, would be in vain, and not altogether welcome. I can
conceive of no other reason why you should wish for my society."
Her face became very pale, but she looked him full in his eyes as
she replied:
"I do not wish to preach or advise at all. Can you not understand
that one may ease one's own pain by trying to relieve the suffering
of another? Now you see how selfish I am."
His face softened instantly, and he said:
"Miss Burton, that is too divine a philosophy for me to grasp at
once. As the world goes now, I think you are founding a school
of your own. You will find me an eager listener, if not an apt
scholar, whenever you will honor me with your company." And smiling
his thanks he rose and left the table.
This conversation had been carried on in tones too low and quiet
to be heard by others in the crowded and noisy dining-room.
Pages:
252
253
254
255
256
257
258
259
260
261
262
263
264
265
266
267
268
269
270
271
272
273
274
275
276