The light of day sweetens all
things. We have dragged this thing out into the
sunlight, where, if it grows, it will grow
sanely and healthily. It was but an ugly, distorted,
unsightly thing, sending out pale unhealthy shoots in the
dark, unwholesome cellars of our inner consciences.
Norah's knowing was the cleanest, sweetest thing about
it."
"How wonderfully you understand her, and how right
you are! Her knowing seems to make it as it should be,
doesn't it? I am braver already, for the knowledge of
it. It shall make no difference between us?"
"There is no difference, Dawn," said he.
"No. It is only in the story-books that they sigh,
and groan and utter silly nonsense. We are not like
that. Perhaps, after a bit, you will meet some one you
care for greatly--not plump, or blond, or German,
perhaps, but still--"
"Doch you are flippant?"
"I must say those things to keep the tears back. You
would not have me wailing here in the street. Tell me
just one thing, and there shall be no more fluttering
breaths and languishing looks. Tell me, when did you
begin to care?"
We had reached Knapfs' door-step. The short winter
day was already drawing to its close. In the half-light
Von Gerhard's eyes glowed luminous.
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