ideal, nor how readily I respond to a temptation to turn aside.

"This," he completed listlessly, "is one of the nights when the price
seems too large; in spite of me, regret will creep in."

"But," persisted the girl, "when you succeed--it will not be--too
late?" There was a plaintive inquiry in the words; the tragedy of the
man's life had awakened pity.

He spoke with a sudden passion that startled her.

"It is too late already; my work has refashioned my life. I am
desperately restless except when doing something that counts;
something visible; and doing it intensely. I'll never"--his voice was
bitter with regret--"never conform--now."

The girl answered, almost unconsciously.

"I think you can," she hesitated, "and will."

For a long, long moment they searched each other's eyes.

"And this price you are paying," said the girl at last, "is it worth
it?"

The man drew a long breath.

"Ah, I wonder! To-night doubt has undermined my resolution."

"If you question yourself so seriously," she said very softly, "then
surely you can find but one answer."

"Again I wonder. I have wondered and--and hoped--God help me!--since
the moment I looked into your eyes."

Suddenly he was out of his chair and coming toward her. Her heart
leaped, her eyes shone; she extended her hands in welcome.

"Then you will come again," she whispered, as they drew together.

"If you will let me. I couldn't stay away now."

THE END

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