[ginp-users] step with th

[Pyne S. <col...@vl...>]

 a man's nature, the keener his craving for the honors of war. "Because
henceforth our paths diverge, I prefer to offer you my exculpation,
desiring amid the general wreck, to retain at least your undiminished
esteem. Will you read my confession?" "No; that would entail the
necessity of absolution, and I might not be able to command the
requisite amiability, should occasion demand it. We have shaken hands
with the past, and you owe me nothing now but pardon for any pain I may
have given you, and occasional kind thoughts when the ocean divides us.
I promise you my unwavering esteem; in exchange grant me your cordial
friendship." She was growing strangely white, and her breath fluttered,
but eyes and lips came to the rescue with a steadfast smile. "You allow
me no alternative but submission to your will; yet remember, dear Leo,
that in surrendering your pledged faith, I hold myself as free from any
intentional forfeiture, as on the day you gave me your promise." "In
token that I believe it, I salute and wear your roses." She bent her
head, touched with her lips the flowers at her throat, and smiling
bravely, held out both hands. He took them, joined the palms, and kissed
her softly, reverently on the forehead. "God bless you, dear Leo. To
have known so intimately a nature as noble and exalted as yours, has
left an indelible impression for good upon my life, which must
henceforth be very kinely. Good-bye." With beat of drum, and blare of
bugles, pride claimed the victory; but as Leo watched the tall, fine
form pass out from the beautiful home she had fondly hoped to share with
him, she clasped her hands across her lips to stifle the cry that told
how dearly she had bought the semblance of triumph. When the quick echo
of his horse's hoofs died away, she went swiftly to her writing desk.
"Dear Uncle: Please send the enclosed telegram to Mr. Cutting. I had a
sad but decisive interview with Mr. Dunbar, and after obtaining his
consent to my tour, we thought it best to annul our engagement. Tell
Aunt Patty, and spare me all quest