he said hoarsely . `` I can not realize that you are in earnest . Have you ceased to care for me ? '' The rigidly locked hands were clasped a little tighter . `` No -- I shall always care for you as my friend if you will let me . But I know we could not make each other happy -- the time for that has gone by . I would never be satisfied , nor would you . Esterbrook , will you release me from a promise which has become an irksome fetter ? '' He looked down on her upturned face mistily . A great joy was surging up in his heart -- yet it was mingled with great regret . He knew -- none better -- what was passing out of his life , what he was losing when he lost that pure , womanly nature . `` If you really mean this , Marian , '' he said slowly , `` if you really have come to feel that your truest love is not and never can be mine -- that I can not make you happy -- then there is nothing for me to do but to grant your request . You are free . '' `` Thank you , dear , '' she said gently , as she stood up . She slipped his ring from her finger and held it out to him . He took it mechanically . He still felt dazed and unreal . Marian held out her hand . `` Good-night , Esterbrook , '' she said , a little wearily . `` I feel tired .
I am glad you see it all XXXXX the same light as I do . ''
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