“I think you judge him hardly.”
“Perhaps so. It is little matter now. The question is, will he give up these letters, and on what conditions?”
“I think if you were yourself to see him—”
“I to see him! Never, never! There is no consequence I would not accept rather than meet that man again.”
“Are you not taking counsel from passion rather than your real interest here?”
“I may be; but passion is the stronger. What sum in money do you suppose he would take? I can command nigh seven hundred pounds. Would that suffice?”
“I cannot even guess this point; but if you like to confide to me the negotiation—”
“Is it not in your hands already?” asked she, bluntly. “Have you not come out here for the purpose?”
“No, on my honor,” said he, solemnly; “for once you are mistaken.”
“I am sorry for it. I had hoped for a speedier settlement,” said she, coldly. “And so, you really came abroad in search of theatrical novelties. Oh dear!” sighed she, “Trover said so; and it is so confounding when any one tells the truth!”