'I should have thought my sentiments were of no consequence.'
'I will not be helped by you. You hate me too much. I will stay in
Forli.'
'You are your own mistress.... Why do you mind?'
'Why do I mind? Shall I tell you?' She came close up to me.
'Because--because I love you.'
My head swam, and I felt myself stagger.... I did not know what was
happening.
'Filippo!'
'Giulia!'
I opened my arms, and she fell into them, and I held her close to my
heart, and I covered her with kisses.... I covered her mouth and eyes
and neck with kisses.
'Giulia! Giulia!'
But I wrenched myself away, and taking hold of her shoulders, said
almost savagely.
'But this time I must have you altogether. Swear that you will--'
She lifted her sweet face and smiled, and nestling close up to me,
whispered,--
'Will you marry me?'