At this statement Dennis attempted not to appear too deeply interested.
“I employ a manager, the one we have always had, who desires to become a partner in the business; but his proposition is handicapped by the character of the consideration he is willing to offer for such an interest.
“In other words, he considers that a proposal of marriage is an equivalent for any financial objection I may suggest.”
Despite his efforts, Dennis looked troubled.
The lady smiled and continued:
“I received this proposition two months since. Its suddenness surprised a plan which I have been perfecting for a long time.
“In order to avoid any interruption to my purposes, I permitted the manager to believe that I was impressed with his offer, but desired a little time for consideration.”
“An’ true, now,” asked Dennis with genuine Irish impulse, “an’ true, now, were you?”
The lady smiled again. “Wait,” she urged, “you shall see.
“I have never trusted this man. He is not only personally obnoxious to me, but I fear that I cannot rely upon his business integrity.