“I? Never!”
He stared at her in amazement.
“Pardon me, I have proof of what I say,” she affirmed. “And Victoria has done the same. She has mentioned it to her friends.”
“I am sorry to hear that.”
The marchioness began to hope.
“You must see that, under the circumstances, you have no alternative, as a gentleman, but to withdraw your letter.”
“I am afraid I don’t see it. I would much rather leave myself in Lady Victoria’s hands.”
“Have you no regard for her feelings, pray?”
“Every regard. If she tells me that she still wishes to marry me, I shall keep my word.”
“You have no right whatever to throw the decision on her. Have you no consideration for her parents?”