"From what?"
"I'll tell you when you are Mrs. Ruck."
"I have no intention of being Mrs. Ruck," retorted the girl, her courage rising, as she felt that she was being driven into a corner; "and I do not understand these hints of danger, which are given to me so freely."
"I gave you only one hint," said Ruck, his eyes on her face.
"Mr. Paslow and Durban have given me others. What does it all mean?"
"I should advise you to ask the two men you have mentioned," said Ruck, taking up his hat, "unless, indeed, you will change your mind and become the star of my life. As my wife, you will know everything; as Miss Hedge, I fear you must be kept in the dark. Come now, Miss Hedge, be advised. I am speaking for your good. I am a gentleman, well-off and passable in looks. Why do you refuse me?"
"I can explain very shortly. I am engaged to Mr. Paslow."
"You will never marry Mr. Paslow," said Ruck, his face darkening.
Before Beatrice could ask the reason for this remark, the door opened, and Vivian, very pale and defiant, entered. "I heard your last words, Ruck," he said calmly, "and beg to tell you that you are quite wrong. Miss Hedge will become my wife in two weeks--that is"--he bowed to Beatrice--"if she will accept me as her husband."