But it was
necessary that he should immediately conduct himself as an engaged
man. 'And you will love me, Marie?' he said, as he again took her
by the hand.
'I will do my best,' she said.
Then he put his arm round her waist and kissed her, and she did not
turn away her face from him. 'I will do my best also to make you
happy,' he said.
'I am sure you will. I believe you. I know that you are good.'
There was another pause during which he stood, still embracing her.
'I may go now; may I not?' she said.
'You have not kissed me yet, Marie?' Then she kissed him; but the
touch of her lips was cold, and he felt that there was no love in
them. He knew, though he could hardly define the knowledge to
himself, that she had accepted him in obedience to her uncle. He
was almost angry, but being cautious and even-tempered by nature he
repressed the feeling. He knew that he must take her now, and that
he had better make the best of it. She would, he was sure, be a
good wife, and the love would probably come in time.
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