"
"You may not come back again," she said nervously.
"That is, of course, possible, Miss Hannay, but I do not think the
risk is greater than that run by those who stay here."
"I want to speak to you before you go," she said; "I have wanted
to speak so long, but you have never given me an opportunity. We
may never meet again, and I must tell you how sorry I am--how
sorry I have been ever since for what I said. I spoke as a foolish
girl, but I know better now. Have I not seen how calm you have been
through all our troubles, how you have devoted yourself to us and
the children, how you have kept up all our spirits, how cheerfully
you have worked, and as our trouble increased we have all come to
look up to you and lean upon you. Do say, Mr. Bathurst, that you
forgive me, and that if you return we can be friends as we were
before."
"Certainly I forgive you if there is anything to forgive, Miss
Hannay," he said gravely. "Nothing that you or anyone can say can
relieve me of the pain of knowing that I have been unable to take
any active part in your defense, that I have been forced to play
the part of a woman rather than a man; but assuredly, if I return,
I shall be glad to be again your friend, which, indeed. I have
never ceased to be at heart."
Perhaps she expected something more, but it did not come. He spoke
cordially, but yet as one who felt that there was an impassible
barrier between them. She stood irresolute for a moment, and then
held out her hand.
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