run the risk of meeting a man whose hand he can never touch. You shall do exactly [214]as you wish in the matter. I leave you entire liberty.” [214] A flush rose slowly in Monica’s face. “I want to do what is right to every one,” she said. “You put things very hardly, Randolph. You only see one side, and even that you view very harshly. I have heard Conrad’s story; it is very painful and shameful; but he has repented—he has indeed, and done all he could to make amends. I have been taught that repentance makes atonement, even in God’s sight. I cannot sit in judgment then, and condemn him utterly.” Randolph looked at her keenly. “Do you know all?” “Yes,” she answered steadily, “I know all. It is very bad; but he has repented.” “I have seen no signs of repentance.” [215] [215] “Have you ever given yourself the chance to do so?” He was still gazing earnestly at her. “Monica,” he said, very gravely, “be advised by me. Do not make yourself Fitzgerald’s champion.” “I do not intend,” she answered, coldly, “but neither will I be his judge.” There was silence for a moment, then Randolph spoke. “We will discuss this question no further. It is a painful one for me. I can never meet that man in friendship; I could wish that you could be content to forget him too; but he is an old friend. You are not connected with the dark passages in his life, and if his repentance is sincere I will not forbid your meeting him or speaking to him, if you find yourself in [216]his company. It goes against me, I confess, Monica. But I do not feel I have the right to say more. If
Prev.
Back
Top