Marian , what do you mean ? '' `` Just what I say . I do not think we are as well suited to each other after all as we have fancied . We have loved each other as brother and sister might -- that is all . I think it will be best to be brother and sister forever -- nothing more . '' Esterbrook sprang to his feet . `` Marian , do you know what you are saying ? You surely can not have heard -- no one could have told you -- '' `` I have heard nothing , '' she interrupted hurriedly . `` No one has told me anything . I have only said what I have been thinking of late . I am sure we have made a mistake . It is not too late to remedy it . You will not refuse my request , Esterbrook ? You will set me free ? '' `` Good heavens , Marian ! '' 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 XXXXX that has gone by .
Esterbrook Marian after as for if in of that to