Nevertheless, now that he was actually face to face with her, in spite of his regard and respect for her, a horrid chasm seemed to yawn between them, which only one primitive emotion can span, an emotion which, like a disused bridge, had fallen into the gulf years ago.
And yet how marvellously strong, how immortal it had seemed once--in this same room with this same woman.

It had seemed then as if it could not break, or fall, or fade.
It had broken, it had fallen, it had faded.
As he looked earnestly at her he became aware that though she had been momentarily distressed a great serenity was habitual to her.

The eyes which now met his had regained their calm.

It seemed as if her life had been steeped in tranquil sunshine, as if the free air of heaven had penetrated her whole delicate being, and had left its clear fragrance with her.
Oh! if only they had been married fifteen years ago! What happiness they might have given each other.

How perfect to have owed it all to each other.