recalled how he had held her hand in his and had looked
into her eyes in a way that had thrilled her whole being. But no
matter where he might go or what he might become, the memory would be
ever dear to her. He would never know of her love for him, and the
world would not have the slightest suspicion of the deep things of her
heart. She would go on her way as in the past, and none would be the
wiser.

Nell was now more like her old self, and as people knew her. Her
self-reliant and reserved nature had always added a certain dignity to
her personal charms. It would, therefore, have been a great surprise
to many could they have looked into her heart on this beautiful
afternoon and discovered the secret. They would then have found how
deep are the real wells of life, that they who feel most keenly say the
least, and that the passionate love of a noble woman is often expressed
in simple outward acts of gentleness, mercy and truth.

For about half an hour Nell sat there, although the passing of time
never once occurred to her. She might have remained thus for the rest
of the afternoon, had she not been suddenly aroused by the sound of
approaching footsteps. Glancing around, great was her astonishment and
embarrassment to see the very one who was in her thoughts hurrying
toward her.

As Nell sprang to her feet, her heart was beating rapidly, and the rich
blood mantled her cheeks and brow, making her more charming than ever,
so Douglas thought. His face was radiant, and his eyes glowed with the
intensity of love. His impulsive nature could brook no further delay,
neither did mere formal words of affection fall from his lips.
Instead, he stepped quickly forward, caught Nell in his arms, and
imprinted a kiss upon her trembling lips.

So great was Nell's surprise at this sudden and audacious act, that she
was rendered almost powerless. A joy surpassing words possessed her,
and she longed to remain forever in her lover's strong embrace. But in
a few seconds, a feeling of maidenly reserve swept over her, and she
tore away the encircling arms.

"How dare you do such a thing?" she demanded. But the tone of her
voice and the expression in her eyes caused Douglas to laugh with
rapturous joy.

"You must get up more fire than that if you expect to frighten me," he
told her.

"But how could you? How did you dare without permission?" Nell
faltered.

"My heart gave permission; you must blame it. And, oh, Nell, tel