He then went on to lament the repeated interruptions that had so long delayed their union, and to press her to name an early day for the wedding.
“Your great haste is of very late date, Alick. I saw no signs of such impatience, until within the last few weeks,” she answered coolly.
He gave her a deprecating look, and pleaded:
“My love was chilled and my pride was hurt by your marked preference for my rival.”
“Hush!” said Anna, quickly. “Let poor Dick alone. He is honest, if he is wild. I have sent him away. Let him go in peace.”
“Just so! Let him go. But you will grant my request?”
“I have no wish to break off our engagement, Alick. I will not be the first woman of my race to break my pledged word. I will give you my promised hand; but not as soon as you ask. Let the year of mourning end first.”
“That will be in November.”
“Yes; you must wait until then.”
Alexander heaved a deep sigh, and got up and walked the room, and looked a great deal more disappointed than he felt.