Page:Teleny, or The Reverse of the Medal, t. I.djvu/129

 despise me.' And her eyes filled with tears. 'You are right. Why did I yield? Why did I not resist the love that was torturing me? Alas! it was not you; but I who sought you, who made love to you; and now you feel for me nothing but disgust. Tell me, is it so? You love another woman! No!—tell me you don't!'

I don't,' said Teleny, earnestly.

Yes, but swear.'

I have already sworn before, or at least offered to do so? What is the use of swearing, if you don't believe me?'

"Though all lust was gone, Teleny felt a heartfelt pity for that handsome young woman, who, maddened by love for him, had put into jeopardy her whole existence to throw herself into his arms.

"Who is the man that is not flattered by the love he inspires in a high-born, wealthy, and handsome young woman, who forgets her marriage vows to enjoy a few moments' bliss in his arms? But, then, why do women generally love men who often care so little for them?

"Teleny did his best to comfort her, to tell her