Yes, he was
very handsome after all; his very soul seemed shining through his eyes, and
as he talked she dropped hers before his earnest gaze.
"It is no use," she said at last, in a low tone. "I cannot, I cannot--
'I do not love you, Dr. Fell,
The reason why I cannot tell.'"
But, low as the words were, Hugh heard them.
"Never mind the love, Dexie; marry me, and the love will come afterwards."
"No, Mr. McNeil, I will not risk it," was her low reply, as she pulled her
hands from his close grasp. "I am quite sure we could not live a week in
peace and happiness. There is something in your very presence that raises
up the worst feelings in me, and why should I knowingly spoil all my life?"
"It is no risk, Dexie; you shall never have any reason to be vexed with me.
Your father is quite ready to accept me as a son-in-law; he trusts me, why
cannot you? My darling, you have had time to think it over. Give me your
promise; it need not be fulfilled until you wish it."
"I cannot give a promise I have no wish or intention of keeping, and how
can you ask such a thing? How can you want an unwilling bride?"
"Never mind me, Dexie.
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