The Hidden Children by Robert William Chambers Chapter 20 Page 23

“Hush, soldier! It must be. I give her to you in gratitude — and tears� . My task is ended; yours at last begins. Out of my arms you shall take her as she promised. What has been said shall be done this day in the Vale Yndaia� . May God be with us all.”

“Madame — when I take her — one arm of mine must remain empty — as half her heart would be — if neither may hold you also to the end.”

She bent her head; her grey eyes closed, and I saw the tears steal out along the long, soft lashes.

“Son, if you should come to love me — — ”

“Madame, I love you now.”