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276 I could not finish the sentence, simply because I did not know what I was going to say when I began it. I sat uneasily listening to the ticking of the clock. It irritated me, and sounded loud as the tramp of soldiers, in the uncomfortable silence that prevailed.

"To-morrow, Arthur," I said, with an effort at levity, as I rose to go, "I shall make you take me for a long walk, as I think it will do us both good. Exercise, you know, is always desirable, and—and—good-night."

I gave him my hand. He took it and, rising, drew me towards him, holding me fondly, firmly in his arms. Bending forward he murmured hoarsely, "Why need we say good-night?"

For one moment I lay quiescent upon his bosom. The next, though my pulses throbbed painfully, and I could feel the hot, feverish blood burning through my veins, I withdrew myself from his clasp, and ran precipitately into my room.

I remained breathless behind the closed door, waiting for him to speak, or at least to let me know that I had not offended him by my