but Jane was answering:
'I can't change what I said before, Mr. Scawthorne. I am very
content to live as I do now. I have friends I am very fond of. Thank
you for your kindness--but I can't change.'
Without intending it, she ceased upon a word which to her hearer
conveyed a twofold meaning. He understood; offer what he might, it
could not tempt her to forget the love which had been the best part
of her life. She was faithful to the past, and unchanging.
Mrs. Byass never suspected the second purpose for which her lodger
had desired to speak with Jane this evening. Scawthorne in due time
took his departure, with many expressions of goodwill, many
assurances that nothing could please him better than to be of
service to Bessie and her husband.
'He wished me to say good-bye to you for him,' said Bessie, when
Jane came back from her work.
So the romance in her life was over. Michael Snowdon's wealth had
melted away; with it was gone for ever the hope of realising his
high projects. All passed into the world of memory, of dream--all
save the spirit which had ennobled him, the generous purpose
bequeathed to those two hearts. which had loved him best.
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