Kilmeny of the Orchard

me,” said Eric restlessly. “ I suppose you have an idea What you are talking about, but I haven’t. And, in any case, it practically means that there is no hope for her—or me. Even if your theory is correct it is not likely such an occasion as you speak of will ever arise. And Kil- meny will never marry me.”

“ Don’t give up so easily, old fellow. There have been cases on record where women have changed their minds.”

“ Not women like Kilmeny,” said Eric miserably. “ I tell you she has all her mother’s unfaltering will and tenacity of purpose, although she is free from any taint of pride or selfishness. I thank you for your sympathy and interest, David. You have done all you could—but, heavens, what it would have meant to me if you could have helped her! ”

With a groan Eric flung himself on a chair and buried his face in his hands. It was a moment which held for him all the bitterness of death. He had thought that

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