Page 431 (2/2)

this evening, that I ht, at least, be spared the further torture of

suspense, which your altered manner had occasioned me, and which the

hints I have just received from the Count have in part explained I

perceive I have enemies, Emily, who enviedout the means to destroy it: I perceive,

too, that time and absence have weakened the affection you once felt for

et me'

His last words faltered, and Emily, less able to speak than before,

continued silent 'O what afro the roo is this,

after our long--long separation!' Again he sat down, and, after the

struggle of atone, 'This is

too much--I cannot bear it! Emily, will you not speak to me?'

He covered his face with his hand, as if to conceal his emotion, and

took Eer

be restrained; and, when he raised his eyes and perceived that she was

weeping, all his tenderness returned, and a gleam of hope appeared to

cross his mind, for he exclaimed, 'O! you do pity me, then, you do love

me! Yes, you are still my own Emily--let me believe those tears, that

tell me so!'