"I owe her more than I can ever repay," said Agatha with emotion.
"But not the selling of my soul."
"You have made up your mind?" said Darkham again. His tone was a question, and the question conveyed a threat. "You absolutely refuse me? Think—think again, Agatha—think!"
"I have thought."
He broke out then,—
"You defy me?"
She faced him bravely even at this moment, when her heart was dying within her.
"Yes, I defy you!"
He drew nearer to her, and caught her arm. His face was close to hers. Such a face!
"To defy me"—he spoke below his breath—"you must be mad to defy me. Now, hear me! You will never marry that fool of yours. I shall prevent that, even though"—he paused ominously—"I have to destroy him."