"What reasons?" demanded Jefferson.
"The principal one," said Ryder, slowly and deliberately, and eyeing his son keenly as if to judge of the effect of his words, "the principal one is that it was through my agents that the demand was made for her father's impeachment."
"Ah," cried Jefferson, "then I guessed aright! Oh, father, how could you have done that? If you only knew him!"
Ryder, Sr., had regained command of his temper, and now spoke calmly enough.
"Jefferson, I don't have to make any apologies to you for the way I conduct my business. The facts contained in the charge were brought to my attention. I did not see why I should spare him. He never spared me. I shall not interfere, and the probabilities are that he will be impeached. Senator Roberts said this afternoon that it was a certainty. You see yourself how impossible a marriage with Miss Rossmore would be, don't you?"
"Yes, father, I see now. I have nothing more to say."
"Do you still intend going away?"
"Yes," replied Jefferson bitterly. "Why not? You have taken away the only reason why I should stay."
"Think it well over, lad. Marry Kate or not, as you please, but I want you to stay here."
"It's no use. My mind is made up," answered Jefferson decisively.