THE REDEMPTION OF ANTHONY
with Tony's love. If you want it, take it; if not, you must let him go."
"But, mother, how could I fill his life? Little, stupid me married to that great man! Suppose he should get tired of me; suppose he should expect me to help him the way you did, and I couldn't! I'd die of the shame of it."
"He's offered you his love; never mind about anything else."
"He frightened me so! He's so quiet usually, but to-day he was—he was like somebody else; somebody fierce and breathless and frightened."
Mrs. Martin sat still several moments before she spoke. "This experience has come into his life late, to make or mar it. It is a terrible responsibility for the woman, Priscilla, but I know you are equal to it, if you love him."
"You think it would be a good thing for him to marry?"
"I think it is a tremendous thing for him to love!"
104
