She was whiter than the pillow on which she lay, white
with that pallor of death which the shadowy valley leaves. But O, what
a joy it was to see her there once more, to feel that she was coming
back, though as one from the grave, to life again!
After half an hour's happy talk he walked to the window and looked
out. It faced the garden and the beach. The trees were now bare, and
through their interlacing branches he could see the waters of the gulf.
As he stood watching them, a figure came in sight. He knew well the
tall erect form, the rapid walk, the pause at the gate, the eager look
toward the house. He had seen it day after day for weeks, and he knew
that, however cold the wind or heavy the rain, it would keep its watch,
until Harriet went to the gate with a word of comfort.
Suddenly a thought came into Richard's heart. He left Phyllis, put
on his hat, and walked rapidly down to the gate. John was about fifty
yards away, and he went to meet him. John saw him coming and walked
steadily forward. He expected unkind words, and was therefore amazed
when Richard put out his hand, and said, "John, forgive me."
"With all my heart, Richard." The tears were in his eyes, his brown
face flushed scarlet with emotion. He held Richard's hand firmly, and
said, "I beg your pardon also, Richard.
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