Then, as we were descending to this ravine you remember
we stopped at the foot of some stairs while you removed a brier
from your dress, and from a group near by I heard the whispered
words, 'There they come--the old blind man, who bought his ward
with money and gratitude. 'Twas a horrid sacrifice! Look how
beautiful she is!' Darling, I liked to hear you praised, but did
not like the rest. It makes me feel as if I were dragging you to
the altar against your will. And what is worse than all, the
verdict of the people here is the verdict of the world. Edith, you
don't want me. You cannot wish to call one husband whose
dependence upon you will always make you blush for your choice. It
was gratitude alone which prompted your decision. Confess that it
was, and I give you back your troth. You need not be the old blind
man's wife."
For an instant Edith's heart leaped up, and the sun spots dancing
on the leaves were brighter than she had ever seen them, but the
feeling passed away, and laying both her hands reverently in
Richard's, she said,
"I will be your wife.
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