“Ah!” said Miss Keogh, calmly, but her flowerlike cheeks were azalea-pink, and her eyes were full of light. She had read the Planet's articles. She did not remember how many million dollars Jerningham was supposed to have; but she did remember how the fairest of the fair had tried—and failed!
“Remember—any time, with or without notice. My offer is open until you accept it or definitely refuse it. Perhaps I never could make you love me; but I know I could love you if I let myself go.”
“You have not answered me,” said Miss Keogh. “Ask again,” he smiled.
“Why?” There was no smile in her eyes.
It made him serious. He answered:
“For friendship.”
“To a woman?”
“To a man.”
“Again I ask, Why?”
There was a pause. Then he said: