“I know that,” Cyrilla answered, “and perhaps she would think I was being – foolish not to – come to you as you – wanted me to do, so that we could have been – together in that dear little house with the – garden.”
“You were right at the time,” the Marquis said. “You were absolutely right. I loved you, Cyrilla, but not in the way I do now and, because I worship you, my little Virgin of the Lilies with my whole heart and soul, I will not spoil or hurt you in any way.”
“It would never – hurt me to be – with you.”
“It would!” the Marquis said simply. “Only what is good and perfect is right where you are concerned. That is why, my darling, unless your father allows us to be married, I shall have to go away.”
Cyrilla gave a little cry.
“I cannot lose you – I cannot! If you leave me – then
