"I would not believe it," she muttered—"and General Harrington—what can it all mean? I thought one might safely calculate on his family pride."
"If you have calculated much on that, it is all over with me, I can tell you," said the girl, sullenly unfolding her arms. "I do not think General Harrington cares much who his son marries, so long as he is not called upon for help. You tell me that Mr. James is the millionaire. Ralph will be independent of his father so long as he keeps on the right side of the richer Harrington."
"Then this thing is settled," muttered the woman, with her eyes cast downward, and her brows gathered in a frown.
"Yes, with all your management, it is settled."
"You are mistaken, girl. Now, I will teach you how much faith can be placed on a woman's promise. Ralph Harrington shall not marry Lina French."
Agnes looked suddenly up. The woman's face was composed and confident; her eyes sparkled, and her lip curved proudly, as if conscious of having resolved some difficulty to her own satisfaction.
"What do you mean, mammy? How can you prevent it?"
"I will prevent it, girl."
"But, how?"
"General Harrington shall withdraw his consent."