The Reconciliation

self-reproach. It was wrong, she said, that he should have allowed himself to suffer on her account; she had always felt that she was not worthy to be his wife. She knew that he had separated from her, nonetheless, only because of poverty; and while he lived with her, he had always been kind; and she had never ceased to pray for his happiness. But even if there had been a reason for speaking of amends, this honorable visit would be ample amends—what greater happiness than thus to see him again, though it were only for a moment?

“Only for a moment!” he answered, with a glad laugh, “say, rather, for the time of seven existences! My loved one, unless you forbid, I am coming back to live with you always—always—always! Nothing shall ever separate us again. Now I have means and friends: we need not fear poverty. Tomorrow my goods will be brought here; and my servants will come to wait upon you; and we shall make this house beautiful.... Tonight,” he added, apologetically, “I came thus late—without even changing my dress—only because of the longing I had to see you, and to tell you this.” She seemed greatly pleased by these