"On some disgusting business connected with that unspeakable man, I suppose."
"Verily I believe it will be very disgusting; but it has to be gone through with."
"Why does it?" His mother stood before him and spoke desperately. "Why can't you let it alone?"
"I've told you—because it affects the happiness of my future wife."
Mrs. Barry's eyes were hard, though her cheeks grew crimson. "You haven't announced your engagement to me. Don't you think I should be one of the first to know?" she said.
"I'm not engaged." Ben smiled into her angry, hurt eyes. "Something stands in the way as yet."
"What?"
"Can't you guess?"
They continued to exchange a steady gaze. She spoke first.
"Do you mean to say that anyone concerned in the affair still considers me?"