Dexie
has given me her love willingly and freely, and I am sure she will be happy
as my wife, the present condition of her father being the only obstacle
that prevents our immediate marriage."
"Forgive me, Traverse! my words were hasty!" and Hugh held out his hand,
"but my heart is sore at the disappointment. I have hastened forward with
all possible speed, hoping for something so different from this, that my
heart rebels. But I shall go back to Halifax, Dexie, and the day I hear of
your marriage I shall propose to Nina Gordon. I wish to my heart she was
dumb! I might persuade myself into thinking sometimes that I had you near
me, if only she would keep her mouth shut! If I cannot have your love, I
may be able to delude myself into thinking that I have your presence near
me occasionally."
"Oh, Mr. McNeil! you cannot mean what you are saying! You surely would not
do such a thing as that!" said Dexie, in a horrified tone. "Your good sense
will prevent you from throwing your life away so needlessly. Oh! I cannot
think that you have a thought of such a thing. It would be dreadful!" and
the dark eyes met his with an eagerness that was questioning.
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