"I do not suppose you have any alternative!" he answered impressively. "Of course I know, that I have startled you, by this unexpected coup, but before long, believe me, Nancy, you will look upon this evening, as the beginning of a new, and splendid life! You were not borne to waste your best days with an old woman,—who, much as I love her, saps one's vitality! You cannot deny that I am handsome, well born, wealthy, and adore you,—and if your cold little heart cares for anyone,—it cares for me. We were born to be happy together."
"What crazy talk!" cried Nancy, and she made an effort to pass him.
"No! no! my own darling; you shall stay here, and listen to me. Such love as mine, will kindle yours; it will,—it must!"
Nancy's lips trembled—but she made no reply; she glanced at him, then round the room, with the eyes of a trapped animal; suddenly she made a dart, and placed the table between them. Oh! if she could but reach the door; but with folded arms, Sir Dudley stood between her, and that means of escape,—eyeing her strangely. At last, she said, in a low faint voice: "You spoke just now, about your wife?"
He nodded. "Yes! a she-devil; she's had serious money losses lately, and I shall have no difficulty in bringing her to terms; my wife will be all right!"
"And what of my—husband?"
Villars broke into a loud derisive laugh, and said: "My own most exquisite Nancy, why invent a fairy tale? You and I, will live, a fairy tale."
"It is no fairy tale," she answered, "I was married in India before I came home."
"Pardon me,—but I do not believe it."
"I cannot help that,—but it is true! Mrs. Ffinch knows, so does Mrs. Hicks; she saw me married; it was all legal: my father wished it to take place,—as he was dying."