He did not know her heart
was beating high with fear.
"I know," he continued, gently, "that some young girls have their
little love secrets. You tell me you have none. I believe you.
I have but one word more to say. You will be out in the great
world soon, and you will doubtless both have plenty of admirers.
Then will come the time of trial and temptation; remember my
words--there is no curse so great as a clandestine love, no
error so great or degrading. One of our race was so cursed, and
his punishment was great. No matter whom you love and who loves
you, let all be fair, honorable, and open as the day. Trust me,
do not deceive me. Let me in justice say I will never oppose any
reasonable marriage, but I will never pardon a clandestine
attachment.
"However dearly I might love the one who so transgressed,"
continued Lord Earle, "even if it broke my heart to part from
her, I should send her from me at once; she should never more be
a child of mine. Do not think me harsh or unkind; I have weighty
reasons for every word I have uttered. I am half ashamed to
speak of such things to you, but it must be done.
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