d on me and the circus since we quit that
damn terra firma for a more peeceful climb.

"We are enjoying winter quarters near to the majestic
phenomena of Niagara, fodder is cheap and vittles
bountiful.

"Would be pleased to have you entertain idees of
joining us, and the same to Mr. Speed--you can take the
horses. I have a lion man from Jersey City. We open in
Charleston S. C. next week no more of La continong for
me, _savvy voo_! home is good enough for me. That
little Jacqueline left me I got a girl and am training
her but she ain't Jacqueline. Annimals are well Mrs.
Grigg sends her love and is joined by all especially
the ladies and others too numerous to mention. Hoping
to hear from you soon about the horses I remain yours
truly and courteously,

"H. Byram Esq."

The second letter I opened carelessly, smiling a little:

"New York, Feb. 1, 1871.

"Dear Mr. Scarlett,--We were married yesterday. We have
life before us, but are not afraid. I shall never
forget you; my wife can never forget the woman you
love. We have both passed through hell--but _we have
passed through alive_. And we pray for the happiness of
you and yours.

"Kelly Eyre."

Sobered, I laid this letter beside the first, turned thoughtfully away
into the room, then stood stock-still.

The Countess de Vassart stood in the doorway, a smile trembling on her
lips. In her gray eyes I read hope; and I took her hands in mine. She
stood silent with bent head, exquisite in her silent shyness; and I
told her I loved her, and that I asked for her love; that I had found
employment in Egypt, and that it was sufficient to justify my asking
her to wed me.

"As for my name," I said, "you know that is not the name I bear;
yet, knowing that, you have given me your love. You read my dossier in
Paris; you know _why_ I am alone, without kin, without a family,
without a home. Yet you believe that I am not tainted with dishonor.
And I am not. Listen, this is what happened; this is why I gave up
all; and ... this is my name!" ...

And I bent my head and whispered the truth for the first time in my
life to any living creature.

When I had ended I stood still, waiting, head still bowed beside
hers.

She laid her hand on my hot face and slowly drew it clos