When he spoke again his voice seemed to have died inwards; he
appeared to be speaking out of his breast.
"And what of yourself, Willy?" he asked.
"I think I care for her, too,--I think so."
How sure was the other of a more absolute affection than the most
positive words could express! Ralph sat silent for a moment, as was
his wont when under the influence of strong feeling. His head inclined
downwards, and his eyes were fixed on the floor. A great struggle was
going on within him. Should he forthwith make declaration of his own
passion? Love said, Yes! love should be above all ties of kindred, all
claims of blood. But the many tongues of an unselfish nature said, No!
If this thing were wrong, it would of itself come to nought; if right,
it would be useless to oppose it. The struggle was soon over, and the
impulse of self-sacrifice had conquered. But at what a cost--at what a
cost!
"Yet there is her father, you know," Willy added. "One dreads the
thought of such a match. There may be something in the blood--at
least, one fears--"
"You need have no fear of Rotha that comes of her relation to Simeon
Stagg.
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