`` Yes , '' she said , gaining a little courage since the ice was broken . `` It -- it -- was a very great surprise to me . I never thought you -- you cared for me as -- as you said . And I am very sorry because -- because I can not return your affection . And so , of course , I can not marry you . '' Mr. Thorne put his hand over his eyes again . He understood now that there had been some mistake and that Miss Madeline had received the letter he had written to her niece . Well , it did not matter -- the appearance of the young man in the garden had settled that . Would he tell Miss Madeline of her mistake ? No , it would only humiliate her and it made no difference , since she had refused him . `` I suppose it is of no use to ask you to reconsider your decision ? '' he said . `` Oh , no , '' cried Miss Madeline almost aghast . She was afraid he might ask it after all . `` Not in the least use . I am sorry -- so very sorry -- but I could not answer differently . We -- I hope -- this will make no difference in our friendly relations , Mr. Thorne ? '' `` Not at all , '' said Mr. Thorne gravely . `` We will try to forget that it has happened . '' He bowed sadly and went out .
Miss Madeline watched him guiltily XXXXX he walked across the lawn .
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