"I fixed on these lines as a _pis aller_; and they have done all and more than I wished, by bringing you back here for at least a moment." "And do you suppose--you speak like a rational man, therefore, I must treat you as one--that I can grant your request ?" "Why not?
It is an uncommon one.

If I have guessed your character aright, you are able to do uncommon things.

Had I thought you enslaved by etiquette, and by the fear of a world which you can make bow at your feet if you will, I should not have asked you.

But,"-- and here his voice took a tone of deepest earnestness--"grant it--only grant it, and you shall never repent it.

Never, never, never will I cast one shadow over a light which has been so glorious, so life-giving; which I watched with delight, and yet lose without regret.