I have always thought so, and I suppose that in
whatever remains of my indolent intelligence I think so still. But
intelligence is not always so reliable as instinct. I am not young
enough nor foolish enough either, to propose that we should swear
eternal brother-and-sisterhood--or perhaps I am not old enough, who can
tell? Yet I feel how perfectly safe it would be for either of us."
The steel had been thrust home, and could go no farther. Unorna's
unquiet temper rose at his quiet declaration of his absolute security.
The colour came again to her cheek, a little hotly, and though there
was a slight tremor in her voice when she spoke, yet her eyes flashed
beneath the drooping lids.
"Are you sure it would be safe?" she asked.
"For you, of course there can be no danger possible," he said, in
perfect simplicity of good faith. "For me--well, I have said it. I
cannot imagine love coming near me in any shape, by degrees or unawares.
It is a strange defect in my nature, but I am glad of it since it makes
this pleasant life possible."
"And why should you suppose that there is no danger for me?" asked
Unorna, with a quick glance and a silvery laugh. She was recovering her
self-possession.
"For you? Why should there be? How could there be? No woman ever loved
me, then why should you? Besides--there are a thousand reasons, one
better than the other."
"I confess I would be glad to hear a few of them, my friend.
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