And do not smooth over a mean, low trick with
the name of an escapade. It was not an escapade, for an escapade is
the overflow of high and reckless spirits, and what I did was done in
cold blood and with a purpose. I have come to tell you about that
purpose."
He could not repress a movement of surprise.
"Surely you have something more serious on your mind than that? If, as
you say, your--your financial position has been rendered precarious by
this failure of the Marut Company, would it not be advisable to hurry
on our marriage at once? Of course, in the meanwhile, if I can do
anything to help your mother--"
She touched him gently on the arm.
"I told you I had come on a serious matter," she said. "Won't you let
me tell you what it is?"
"Of course, Beatrice, of course. Only I thought that was the serious
matter."
"It is perhaps for my mother, but not for me. Things have changed
their value in my life. Just now I feel there is only one thing that
has any value at all, and that is freedom."
"From what? I do not understand. Do you mean from debt?"
She smiled sadly.
"Yes, from debt. John, I want to ask you an honest question honestly.
Why did you ask me to become your wife?"
He moved uneasily.
"Why do you ask? Surely we understand each other."
"We did, perhaps, but I have told you that things have changed. Won't
you answer me?"
"I asked you--because I wished you to be my wife," he returned
stubbornly.
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