"Her temporary absence from the city till to-day put it out of my power to bring the matter at once in a decision. What I suffered during this period of suspense makes my present condition tolerable by comparison. It is but a few hours since I obtained the desired interview, and received the answer I had come to regard as almost certain. Though gently and courteously expressed, I felt that from that decision there was no appeal. I came away admiring more than ever, but convinced that what I so ardently longed for, her love, cannot be mine. Yours it is still, I firmly believe. Why I believe so, I cannot say. There are beliefs that are not the less strong because resting on evidence rather felt than perceived.
"You are sleeping soundly and peacefully, so I will not disturb you to say good-by. Besides, lave I not said all I have to say,—perhaps more? I cannot remain longer, since this very evening I must leave to join the other members of the expedition at N. You need not write till you hear of the safe arrival of the party at Weissnichtwo. Don't be shy about sending cards, By that time my cure will be fairly begun—I may as well begin it now. I leave you here a sprig of eglantine, of which I managed surreptitiously to possess myself to-day, I need not say for whose sake I would fain have retained it. I leave it for you, with my best wishes. It is not easy to do, but it is best so. Vive et vale.
