"That you shall never say. I vow before God never to leave you. You and I shall live our lives together, whatever your answer to the petition I now make. Will you be my wife?"
"Mark, I am not----"
"Stop!" he said. "You once declared that as you loved me, so you honored me. I now, with all solemnity, declare that you are honored as you are loved by me. If I do not estimate the fault which you have expiated as you do, I respect and admire the expiation. If you believe me to be a truthful man, learn now that I approve your care of him who was your husband. Let that suffice. And now, once more I swear that I will never leave you. Will you be my wife?"
"Mark, I love you."
"Then the wedding bells shall ring, and Forellenbach shall rejoice."
Their lips met, and in the kiss they forgot the years that had passed since last they saw Forellenbach.
THE END.