"I have very little to add," she went on, more steadily. "After what I
witnessed, I need hardly say that we only meet again as the merest
strangers. You might think meanly of me, indeed, if I ever allowed your
lips to touch my cheek or my hand again. Remember, I told you from the
first we were not suited to each other; perhaps I deserve all I have met
with for allowing myself to be overruled. You can not contradict a word
of this, or say that it is unjust or severe."
Did she pause in the expectation or the hope of an excuse, or an appeal
from her hearer? Only the hoarse answer came,
"I have forfeited the right to defend myself or to gainsay you."
"You would find it difficult to do either," Constance rejoined, rather
more haughtily; perhaps she was disappointed in the tone of his reply.
"One word more: if my name is ever called in question, I am sure no one
will defend it more readily than yourself. My voice will never be heard
against you; and if, hereafter, you shall desire my forgiveness more
than you now do; remember, I have given it unasked and freely."
Guy's tone was pregnant with cold, cruel irony as he answered,
"I congratulate you on your position, Miss Brandon; it is quite
unassailable.
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