She rose now, calm before the imperious quality of his nature, so unlike his former gentleness.
"You refuse, then, Mr. Jefferson? You will not reopen this case?"
"I refuse nothing to you gladly, my dear lady. But you have seen him--you have tested him. Did he turn back? Shall I, his friend and his chief, halt him at such a time? Now that were the worst kindness to him in the world. And I am convinced that you and I both plan only kindness for him."
Suddenly he saw the tears in her eyes. At once he was back again, the courteous gentleman.
"Do not weep, Theodosia, my child," said he. "Let me kiss you, as your father or your grandfather would--one who holds you tenderly in his heart. Forgive me that I pass sentence on you both, but you must part--you must not ask him back. There now, my dear, do not weep, or you will make me weep. Let me kiss you for him--and let us all go on about our duties in the world. My dear, good-by! You must go."