He looked at her sternly.
"Ellen!"
"Well, what is it?"
"What do you desire in exchange for these minutes of deception?"
"Nelson!"
"It is a simple question. If you have any wish ungratified, speak. This cajolery is not necessary."
"You are cruel, Nelson."
He saw the tears mount slowly to her eyes; the hand which touched his, trembled.
"You have ceased to love me, Nelson?"
She asked this question breathlessly; all the splendor of her position seemed fading away. Her lips grew white, and she leaned heavily on the table. Ambition spoke loudly as her heart should have done.