And suddenly he saw her enthroned--a woman, not a child--a wife, not a playmate. Her youth and beauty were still there to charm him, but back of them was a quality which would hold him until the end--a divine quality of tenderness, of compassion, of eternal constancy. And, in response, he brought the best that manhood can bring to woman--reverence and that high regard which makes of marriage a spiritual bond. He tried to speak, but his voice failed. Then, as she bent above him, she heard his whisper: "Kiss me--my wife!" * * * * * In the days which followed the pretty ladies came in a charming procession--Diana and Sophie, little Sara, bravely wistful, Doris escorted by Bobbie. And last, but not least in importance, came Letty Matthews, in a new white dress and rose-wreathed hat, and with happiness glorifying her plain features. But though they came and went, all these good friends of his, and he smiled and greeted them, his eyes went always beyond them to the little white and gold creature with the woman-eyes. And his voice would call for her, and until she came he would not be content. CHAPTER XXIV THE AFTERGLOW Anthony vetoed absolutely the idea of a marriage before Justin's fate should be finally decided. "But if he knows," Bettina urged with trembling lips, "if he knows that he may be--crippled--he will say that I shall not marry him. You know that he would say that, Anthony." "And he would be right. A chronic invalid should not marry, Betty. I have great hope of his recovery. You and he must live on that hope a little longer." Bettina begged Diana to intercede, and that lovely lady, having claimed Anthony for a twilight walk on the beach, began her plea. But after the first words she found that she must deal not with the man who loved her, but with the great Dr. Anthony. "I shall certainly not allow it. I am not, of course, her legal guardian, and so I cannot prevent it in that way. But I can tell Justin." "But she will not be happy without him, Anthony. If it were you, I should marry you." "I should not let you." "You could not help it." They faced each other--this strong man and this strong woman. With their wills opposed, each seemed immovable. It was evident that only a great depth of affection could bring harmony between their dominant natures.