Now, thanks to a vicious little housemaid's folly,
there was nothing to look for--not even the hope that he might some day take an
abiding interest in the housemaid. Worst of all, he had been made to appear
ridiculous in Maisie's eyes. A woman will forgive the man who has ruined her
life's work so long as he gives her love; a man may forgive those who ruin the
love of his life, but he will never forgive the destruction of his work.
"Tck--tck--tck," said Dick between his teeth, and then laughed softly. "It's an
omen, Bessie, and--a good many things considered, it serves me right for doing
what I have done. By Jove! that accounts for Maisie's running away. She must
have thought me perfectly mad--small blame to her! The whole picture ruined,
isn't it so? What made you do it?"
"Because I was that angry. I'm not angry now--I'm awful sorry."
"I wonder.--It doesn't matter, anyhow. I'm to blame for making the mistake."
"What mistake?"
"Something you wouldn't understand, dear. Great heavens! to think that a little
piece of dirt like you could throw me out of stride!" Dick was talking to
himself as Bessie tried to shake off his grip on her wrist.
"I ain't a piece of dirt, and you shouldn't call me so! I did it 'cause I hated
you, and I'm only sorry now 'cause you're 'cause you're----"
"Exactly--because I'm blind.
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