There was even a terror in the thought of their meeting again.

It was as if Hilda or Miriam were dead, and could no longer hold intercourse without violating a spiritual law.
Yet, in the wantonness of her despair, Miriam made one more step towards the friend whom she had lost.

"Do not come nearer, Miriam!" said Hilda.

Her look and tone were those of sorrowful entreaty, and yet they expressed a kind of confidence, as if the girl were conscious of a safeguard that could not be violated.
"What has happened between us, Hilda ?" asked Miriam.

"Are we not friends ?" "No, no!" said Hilda, shuddering.
"At least we have been friends," continued Miriam.