416ページ中397ページ

"You've been a dear!" he cried, and took one of her hands in his.

She did not move. "Elsa, I want you for my wife!"

"What can I say?" she began in a low voice. "You are noble and

good, Code, and I know what has actuated you to say this to me.

Some women would be resentful at your offer, but I am not. A week

ago, even yesterday, I should have accepted it gladly and humbly,

but to-day--no.

"Since last night I have thought, and somehow things have come

clearer to me. I have tried to do too much. I have always loved

you, Code, but I can see now that you were not meant for me. I

tried to win you because of that love, not considering you or

others--only myself. And I defeated my own end. I overshot the

mark."

"I don't understand," said Code.