I saw then how much she was changed, even in these few days--how pale and worn were her cheeks, how dark the circles round her eyes.

'Will you swear to it ?' she said at last, speaking with uncontrollable eagerness, while she laid a hand which shook with excitement on my arm.

Will you swear to it, sir ?' 'It is true,' I answered steadfastly.

I might have added that after the event her husband had so treated mademoiselle as to lead her to fear the worst.

But I refrained, feeling that it was no part of my duty to come between husband and wife.
She clasped her hands, and for a moment looked passionately upwards, as though she were giving thanks to Heaven; while the flesh of health and loveliness which I had so much admired returned, and illumined her face in a wonderful manner.