Page:War; or, What happens when one loves one's enemy, John Luther Long, 1913.djvu/63

UNDER THE PLUM TREES "You came like a burst of divine flame to kindle a holy passion," Jon goes on. "The Lord sent you to complete my imperfect life. Before you came there was only little Dave. But he had to go away. I seem to understand that with your coming I am myself again and that you are to be me, I you—one perfect exquisite being!—and that you are never to go again."

"Jon," says Evelyn, turning soft and pitiful, "you must try and be merciful—to us both."

"Mercy is for you, dear," says Jon.

"No, no, brother Jonthy," says Evelyn, even more pitiful. "I want just enough of your great love for a sister. That is all I dare receive. That is all you may give. Keep the rest for some one more worthy. Now, let us not hurt each other. I am capable of it! Maybe I have done it—hurt you all. But what matters it that a few of us fall by the wayside if the people are saved! Jon, there must be no more of this. I have dedicated myself to a great cause. I am not I any more. I am a 47