I hardly know myself." "Billie," I broke in, "I do understand far better than you suppose.

This affair tests us both.

But, dear, I do not know what five minutes may bring.

We shall be attacked again; I expect the alarm every instant, and I may not come out alive.

I must know first that you love me--know it from your own lips." She was silent, it seemed to me a long, long while.