"I am a woman, as I was yesterday; endowed with the same truth of nature, the same warmth of heart, the same genuine and earnest love, which you have always known in me.

In any regard that concerns yourself, I am not changed.

And believe me, Hilda, when a human being has chosen a friend out of all the world, it is only some faithlessness between themselves, rendering true intercourse impossible, that can justify either friend in severing the bond.

Have I deceived you?
Then cast me off! Have I wronged you personally?
Then forgive me, if you can.

But, have I sinned against God and man, and deeply sinned?
Then be more my friend than ever, for I need you more." "Do not bewilder me thus, Miriam!" exclaimed Hilda, who had not forborne to express, by look and gesture, the anguish which this interview inflicted on her.