Clephane.
She looked at him contemplatively, trying to read behind his words.
"What is it, Madeline?" he asked.
"I wonder!" she said speculatively.
"Can't I answer?"
"Yes, you can answer--"
"Then ask me," he invited, seeking to get something that would afford
him an inkling of her aim. Assuredly she had him guessing.
For a moment she looked him straight in the eyes; then suddenly her
glance wavered, a faint flush crept from neck to cheek, and she smiled
almost bashfully.
"Guy," said she, "I ask you to forget our profession if you can, and
take what I am about to say as free from guile or expediency--and of
supreme importance to me. I'm just a simple woman now, with a woman's
desires and affection and hopes. I've come to the parting of the ways:
on one side lie power, excitement, loneliness; on the other,
contentment, peace, companionship. I'll choose the latter, if you're
willing. You have but to say the word and I'll give up everything,
confess what I'm here for, what I've done, and what is arranged for in
the future."
"Upon what condition, Madeline?" he smiled, more puzzled than ever. He
was almost ready to believe she meant it.
She caught her breath, hesitated, blushed furiously--and answered
softly:
"Upon the condition that you marry me.
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