"And then you were cured," she went on more urgently, "and during these
long, long years, did it never enter your mind to care for me?"
He hung his head in embarrassment, and with deep pain avoided the
glance she fixed upon him. Why had he not written to her, why had he
not returned to his lodgings when he left the hospital? He could not
yet tell her the truth, not now, not here. Shame and repentance seized
him when he thought of it now; simply because he was glad to be able to
leave Paris without seeing Pauline again.
It was the old story, which ever remains new. A young student in Paris
meets a pretty young working-girl, who is alone in the world; they are
pleased with each other, the girl willingly throws herself into the
young man's arms, and these arms gladly clasp the affectionate young
creature who nestles in them. Under favourable circumstances, this
careless, happy relation lasts a year or two, then comes the time when
the student has completed his studies and practical life claims him.
Farewell to the delightful love-life, with no care for the future, no
responsibility! Farewell to the dove-like nest for two in an attic
chamber filled with the roseate morning light of youth and hope! As a
rule the parting takes place without trouble.
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