Part 45 (1/2)
”If I tell you to-morrow where to find Gareth, will you make public what you have told me to-day and denounce the men who were concerned in my father's ruin?”
At the direct question he was profoundly agitated again. ”Is there no other way?”
”No. None. I am pleading for my father's honour.”
”I will do it,” he said, with a bitter sigh.
”On your word of honour, Colonel Katona?”
”Yes. On my word of honour. G.o.d help me.”
I drew a deep breath of relief. I needed no further a.s.surance. I had seen enough to know that what I still had to tell him--that Gustav was the man he sought--would suffice to change any lingering remnant of indecision into grim set purpose.
I told him I would send him word on the following morning where he and Count Karl were to come to me at about noon.
”You will give me your hand, Christabel?” he asked, hesitating, as we were parting.
”Yes. I trust you now to undo the past.”
He held my hand a moment and seemed much affected.
”I had meant to speak to you about Count Karl. He----”
”Please!” I broke in.
”If I could help your happiness it would be some recompense for my wrong to your father.”
”You cannot do that.”
”You care for him?”
”Please,” I said again.
”I know. He has told me what stands between you. I am glad now that you made me speak--although your words stabbed me to the heart. But I am glad now--and perhaps I can help you. It should not be all tragedy for you two. But heaven knows it is tragedy whatever happens.”
I was glad to be alone. The interview had tried me. I endeavoured to a.n.a.lyze my feelings; and I am afraid I realized that while I was jubilant at the prospect of success, the knowledge that it brought nearer the parting from Karl made me almost wish for failure.
That was rank treachery to my purpose and my dear father's memory, I know. But then, I was only a girl; and after all, even in the strongest of us, the heart will have its way at times. Mine took it then for a desolate half-hour, until I was roused by the two chattering girls who came romping in to take me away to dress for dinner.
CHAPTER XXIII
A GREEK GIFT
At dinner his Excellency was thoughtful and taciturn, and we had a rather dismal meal. He noticed my dress when we met, however.
”You have your clothes, then?” he said in his dryest manner.
”Yes, my servant came to arrange the things I needed.”