I
suggested your giving up the lessons because I thought the
arrangement might be satisfactory to you, and not because _I_
wished it, for I do not; I cannot give up the only source of
happiness left to me. Forget what I said. Remain my pupil and I'll
try to be more cheerful in your presence. You shall NOT help to
bear my burden as you bear that of Collingwood's unfortunate
inmates."
Edith never liked to hear her relations to Richard referred to in
this manner, and she answered quickly,
"You are mistaken, Mr. St. Claire, in thinking I bear any burden
either here or elsewhere. No one ever had a happier home than I,
and there's nothing on earth I would not do for Richard."
"Would you marry him, Edith?" and Arthur scanned her closely.
"Would you be his wife if he demanded it as his right? and I think
he will do this sometime."
Edith trembled from head to foot, as she answered,
"Not if he demanded it as a right, though he might well do that,
for I owe him everything. But if he loved me, and I loved him."
She paused, and in the silence which ensued the tumultuous beating
of her heart was plainly audible.
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