"My uncle. Do not reproach him. It shall go no further, if you forbidit. Are you sorry that I know it?"

"Yes."

"Why?"

"Because I will not be pitied!" And her eyes flashed as she made ahalf-defiant gesture.

"Then, if I may not pity the hard fate which has befallen an innocentlife, may I admire the courage which meets adverse fortune so bravely,and conquers the world by winning the respect and regard of all who seeand honor it?"