“And you really believe what you say?”

“Truly, I do.”

Again she looked so lovely, in her truth and humility, that he was almost tempted to relent. And again the impulse only made him more unjust.

“In a word, madam, what do you wish me to do, for I begin to weary of this discussion. Nor is it well to subject myself to the influence of your fascinations, for I candidly admit to you that I am sensible of them, as others have been.”

“I only wished to propose to you to take a day, and drive around the neighborhood with me, to return the calls that have been made upon us.”

“Very well, madam, I am at your commands whenever you please to call upon me for that service. When do you propose to go?”

“At your earliest convenience.”

“Will to-morrow do?”

“If you please.”

“To-morrow then let it be. And now, Mrs. Clifton, have you any further commands for me?”