and get strength. . . . How is it that you speak so fluently now? Who has taught you such good English?'
'I have learnt things in my troubles,' she said evasively.
'What troubles have you had?'
She told him of the first one—the only one that related to him.
'Heaven!' said D'Urberville, 'I knew nothing of this till now! Why didn't you write to me?'
She did not reply; and he broke the silence by adding: 'Well—you will see me again.'
'No,' she answered. 'Do not again come near me!'
'I will think. But before we part, come here. He stepped up to the pillar. 'This was once a Holy Cross. Relics are not in my creed; but I fear you at moments—far more than you need fear me; and to lessen my fear, put your hand upon that stone hand, and swear that you will never tempt me—by your charms or ways.'
'Good God—how can you ask what is so unnecessary! All that is furthest from my thought!'
