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 'GOD'S PEACE' 345

side, an expression of wistful sadness in her eyes. Anxiously 1 asked her what was the matter, and she said: 'Forgive me, dear, it is sheer childishness. But while we walked here amongst all these people, who breathlessly seem to chase pleasure, a fear of losing you overcame me. It seemed to me that they would take you away from me. It was as if your talk hurried along with them, far, far away. Forgive me, please remember how little I am accustomed to be amongst the many. Remember it is the first time we have left our quiet places.'

She smiled tenderly again to me, pressing my arm. But I led her quickly away from the skating throng, mounted again into the waiting sledge, and returned to our quiet places.

7"' OF JANUARY.

T 0-day the post arrived by sleigh. It brought XXVIII me a letter from my publisher, who teasingly asked if I was not tired of my hermit life, and if he could not tempt me to return by offering me the management of a large literary undertaking he contemplates starting. The conditions he offered me were so good that I need not fear financial difficulties for the future.

Some months ago I would perhaps have hesitated, now my answer needs no reflection. I dip my pen at once and write that I cannot accept his kind offer as I have become here the happiest man in the world, and because my happiness is tied to this corner of the earth. That irrevocably I have