"What woman is there worth a straw that has not? If Clara Van Siever were ill-used, she would resent it. I do not doubt that for a moment. I should not like to be the man who would do it."
"Nor I, either," said Conway.
"But there is plenty of feminine softness in that character, if she were treated with love and kindness. Conway, if you will take my advice you will ask Clara Van Siever to be your wife. But perhaps you have already."
"Who; I?"
"Yes; you."
"I have not done it yet, certainly, Mrs. Broughton."
"And why should you not do it?"
"There are two or three reasons;—but perhaps none of any great importance. Do you know of none, Mrs. Broughton?"
"I know of none," said Mrs. Broughton in a very serious,—in almost a tragic tone;—"of none that should weigh for a moment. As far as I am concerned, nothing would give me more pleasure."
"That is so kind of you!"