The woman who--" "But, Lord Almighty! Your papers! Your decorations!" "Quite genuine," she answered, smiling at him with dark eyes, unafraid.

Through all his dazed astonishment he saw the wonder of those eyes, the perfect oval of that face, the warm, rich tints of her skin even though overspread with the pallor of suffering.
"Madam," said he, trying to rally, "this is past all words No explanation can make amends for such deception.

Still, the secret is yet yours--and mine.

Until I decide what to do, it must be respected." Past her he walked, to the door, and snapped the catch.

She, turning, leaned against the table and smiled.