"But if you have no liking for married life, the millions upon millions should not induce you to change this determination," remarked the old naval officer, kindly.
"But wait, commander," said Gerald, with some little embarrassment. "My refusal irritated my mother. She told me I was blind, and that I had no sense; but finally her anger gave place to such profound chagrin that, seeing her inconsolable at my refusal, I—"
"You consented to the marriage?" asked Olivier.
"Yes," replied Gerald.
Then noticing a slight movement of astonishment on the part of the old sailor, Gerald added:
"Commander, my decision seems to surprise you."
"Yes, M. Gerald."
"But why? Tell me frankly."
"Well, M. Gerald, if you consent to marry contrary to your inclination, and that merely to please your mother, I fear you are making a great mistake," answered the veteran, in firm, but affectionate tones, "for sooner or later your wife will suffer for the compulsion you exert upon yourself to-day, and one ought not to marry to make a woman unhappy. Don't you agree with me, Olivier?"
"Perfectly."