"We've been good friends," he went on. "I can never forget you. You made a new man of me. You came into my life at a time when everything seemed at an end. Your sweet, gentle influence filled me with renewed hope, renewed energy, a determination to begin life anew. Suddenly, I discovered that you were indispensable to my happiness. In my folly I dreamed that you might become my wife. Perhaps if things had turned out otherwise, if the Saucy Polly had not come—— Well, what's the use of talking of that now? I was insane. I lifted my eyes to the stars. I deserved to be punished for my temerity."
Grace did not stir. Fascinated, she stood listening to his words. There was sadness in his voice, and the music of its rich tones still exercised on her its old-time magnetism. What potent attraction was there about this man that rendered her powerless to resist his pleading? Was she afraid to confess to herself that she loved him and that she was ready to do anything, break off with the Prince, incur the ridicule of her friends, offend her father—for his sake?
Armitage continued:
"But that is all over now. We part good friends. You go your way—I will go mine. You will find happiness with the Prince——"
Grace turned quickly. Her eyes red and flashing, her bosom heaving with pent-up emotion, she cried:
"The Prince! The Prince! I detest the Prince! I wouldn't marry him if there wasn't another man left in the world."
Armitage drew back, surprised.
"Aren't you engaged to him?" he demanded.
"No—no! That is only newspaper talk. He has been annoying me with his attentions, and of course all my people were flattered. But there's nothing more serious."
"Thank God!" he muttered under his breath.