But after what you said the night of our arrival I began to view the thing in a new light, and to despise my part in It.

Yet even then I felt bound to carry out my agreement.

It was only when you told me your identity, that I felt free to decide otherwise." "Why should that make such a difference?
If I had not been the one, then it would have been some other woman defrauded." "True, but a mere unknown, a shadow.

Besides, I had no reason previously to know that a fraud was contemplated--those rascals told a most plausible story, leaving me to believe I served the real heirs.
Now I comprehend their true purpose and--and, well, knowing you it has become personal." "I do not altogether understand." "Why, it is simply this," I went on desperately, "I want to serve you, and I want you to respect me.

Down in your heart you have n't really been assured that I was not one of that gang of conspirators.