But he was proud, too.
"Because directly my eyes fell upon you I loved you," he said steadily.
Stéphanie started to her feet.
"Monsieur, you outrage my hospitality," she said haughtily.
He got up and faced her.
"Never!" he cried. "I did not mean to say it—yet, but——"
"You insult me, monsieur!"
"Pardon me, mademoiselle"—his tone was cool as hers now—"but the offer of a man's heart and home can never be an insult!"
"An honour, perhaps?" mockingly.
"It is at least his best, mademoiselle."