"And my father, sir, is rich enough that your poverty need not fret you," said Rose Marie quietly. "An you'll have me as your wife—"
"It is my duty as well as my pleasure, Madam," he broke in decisively, "to ask you if you'll permit me to lay my submission at your feet."
"You have but to command me, sir," she rejoined coldly.
"An unfortunate incident, of which I understand you have some inkling, will force me to leave England for a time."
"We know that a false charge has been preferred against you, sir, and we came to England—I trust not too late—to warn you of your danger."
"Nay, not too late, Madam; as you see I am still free. I had warnings from other quarters yet am equally grateful for your pains."
"The cloud will blow over," she said stiffly. "When do you propose to go to France?"
"To-night an it please you, Madam," he replied. "Will you journey in my company?"
"If you so desire it, sir."