Mark Foster turned to me . `` Go and bring her down , '' said he . Isabella , judging Phillippa by herself , gave a little moan of despair , and Owen , blinded by love and hope , thought his cause was won . But I knew my dearie too well to be glad , and Mark Foster did , too , and I hated him for it . I went up to my dearie 's room , all pale and shaking . When I went in she came to meet me , like a girl going to meet death . `` Is -- it -- time ? '' she said , with her hands locked tight together . I said not a word , hoping that the unlooked-for sight of Owen would break down her resolution . I just held out my hand to her , and led her downstairs . She clung to me and her hands were as cold as snow . When I opened the parlor door I stood back , and pushed her in before me . She just cried , `` Owen ! '' and shook so that I put my arms about her to steady her . Owen made a step towards her , his face and eyes all aflame with his love and longing , but Mark barred his way . `` Wait till she has made her choice , '' he said , and then he turned to Phillippa . I could n't see my dearie 's face , but I could see Mark 's , and there was n't a spark of feeling in it . Behind it was Isabella 's , all pinched and gray . `` Phillippa , '' said Mark , `` Owen Blair has come back . He says he has never forgotten you , and that he wrote to you several times .
I have told him XXXXX you have promised me , but I leave you freedom of choice .
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