“The count has permitted me to hope”—
“He has pledged his word, sir, under certain conditions. My dear count has told me every thing. I speak, therefore, to Count Ville-Handry’s son-in-law, and I repeat, Do you see any objections to this match?”
The question was too precisely put to allow of any prevarication. And still Daniel was bent upon gaining time, and avoiding any positive answer. For the first time in his life he said a falsehood; and, turning crimson all over, he stammered out,—
“I see no objection.”
“Really?”
“Really.”
She shook her head, and then said very slowly,—
“If that is so, you will not refuse me a great favor. Carried away by her grief at seeing her father marry again, Miss Ville-Handry hates me. Will you promise me to use your influence in trying to persuade her to change her disposition towards me?”
Never had honest Daniel Champcey been tried so hard. He answered diplomatically,—
“I am afraid you overestimate my influence.”