he said . `` Oh , no , '' cried Miss Madeline almost aghast . She was afraid he might ask it after all . `` Not in the least use . I am sorry -- so very sorry -- but I could not answer differently . We -- I hope -- this will make no difference in our friendly relations , Mr. Thorne ? '' `` Not at all , '' said Mr. Thorne gravely . `` We will try to forget that it has happened . '' He bowed sadly and went out . Miss Madeline watched him guiltily as he walked across the lawn . He looked heart-broken . How dreadful it had been ! And Lina had refused twelve men ! How could she have lived through it ? `` Perhaps one gets accustomed to doing it , '' reflected Miss Madeline . `` But I am sure I never could . '' `` Did Mr. Thorne feel very badly ? '' whispered Lina that night . `` I 'm afraid he did , '' confessed Miss Madeline sorrowfully . `` He looked so pale and sad , Lina , that my heart ached for him .
I XXXXX very thankful that I have never had any other proposals to decline .
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