"As for Tom," says Tita suddenly, "I tell you distinctly I shall not give him up."
"Give him up!" The phrase grates upon his ear. "What do you mean?" demands he, his anger all aflame again.
"That I shall not insult him, or be cold to him, to please you or anybody."
"Is that your decision? Then I think it will be wise of your cousin to shorten his visit."
"Do you mean by that that you are going to be uncivil to him?"
"Yes!" shortly, and with decision.
"You will be cold to him? To Tom? To my own cousin? Maurice,
Maurice! Think what you are doing!"
She has come close up to him. Her charming face is uplifted to his.
"Think what you are doing," returns he hoarsely. He catches her hands. "If you will swear to me that he is nothing to you—nothing——"
"He is my cousin," says Tita, who hardly understands.