He arose but lingered near the table , as if longing to search for some forgotten hint of himself . `` No , there has been enough lock picking and stealthy work ; I 'll do no more for her sake . This theft will harm no one and tell no tales . '' And snatching up the glove , Paul departed . `` Helen , the time has come . Are you ready ? '' he asked , entering her room an hour later . `` I am ready . '' And rising , she stretched her hand to him with a proud expression , contrasting painfully with her helpless gesture . `` They have gone to the Hall , and we must follow . It is useless to wait longer ; we gain nothing by it , and the claim must stand on such proof as we have , or fall for want of that one link . I am tired of disguise . I want to be myself and enjoy what I have won , unless I lose it all . '' `` Paul , whatever happens , remember we cling together and share good or evil fortune as we always have done . I am a burden , but I can not live without you , for you are my world . Do not desert me . '' She groped her way to him and clung to his strong arm as if it was her only stay . Paul drew her close , saying wistfully , as he caressed the beautiful sightless face leaning on his shoulder , '' Mia cara , would it break your heart , if at the last hour I gave up all and let the word remain unspoken ? My courage fails me , and in spite of the hard past I would gladly leave them in peace . '' `` No , no , you shall not give it up ! ''
cried XXXXX almost fiercely , while the slumbering fire of her southern nature flashed into her face .
Helen Paul arm burden cara close fall heart spite table