"That would be mad indeed. What can that possibly have to do with me?"
"This," she said. "We are speaking this last time. I will not be divorced from him; do you know why? Because if I were—if I were free—I should be weak, and marry you. Do you understand now? Try and understand me, for I shall not say it again—it is too hard to say."
"Not so hard as it is to believe."
"But you will try, will you not?"
"No."
The monosyllable had scarcely escaped from his lips, short, energetic and determined, when he was interrupted by Stubbs, who seemed destined to appear at inopportune moments on that day. He was evidently much excited, and he stood stock still by the door. At the same time there was a noise outside, of many feet and of subdued voices. Stubbs made desperate gestures.
"Mr. Brett, sir! Will you please come outside, sir!" He was hardly able to make himself understood.
"What is the matter?" asked Marion, severely.
"I cannot help it, sir! Indeed I cannot, Madam!" protested the distressed butler.
Brett understood.