"
He paused again. Still no sign, and then he went on:
"I let you go. I did not dare reveal myself, but I kept my promise. Hate
me, Mollie, as you will; despise me, as you must--but try and think how
dearly I love you. I would lay down my life for you, my darling Mollie.
That would be an easy sacrifice; it remains for me to make a greater
one. A divorce shall set you free. I myself will obtain that divorce. No
one knows of our marriage--no one ever shall know. I will leave you
free--free as the wind that blows--to go forth and make happy a more
honorable and deserving man. Only, Mollie, no man ever will love you as
I love you!" His voice failed. He turned abruptly away, and stood as if
waiting for her to speak. But she never uttered a word.
He took her silence for a token of her utter scorn and hate.
"Farewell then, Mollie," he said. "I go, and I will never molest you
more. The carriage that brought you here will fetch you home again. But
before we part forever, let me say this--if you ever want a friend, and
can so far forgive me the wrong I have done you as to call upon me for
help, then, Mollie, I will try to repair my unpardonable offense.
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