"I shall be with my father," she replied evasively. "Count Poltavo and Mr. Baggin are in open rupture," she hurried on. "Each is fighting for mastery. Count Poltavo has the brains, but Baggin has the money. Between them, they tear my poor father to pieces."
"And you!" he cried in a choked, angry voice. "They are killing you, too."
"I am a pawn in the game," she said listlessly. "Each side plays me off against the other." She rose. "It is late. Maria."
The old woman materialised out of the gloom, and held open the gate. Cord arose also.
"You are not to come with me!" she whispered urgently. "Good-night!"
He held her closely. "You love me?"
"Forever!" she said simply.
She rearranged the lace mantilla about her head, and held out her hand.
"I am coming with you," he said composedly.
Something in his tone checked the protest on her lips.