"But why? What is your reason?"
"I dare not tell you my reason; but you shall learn this much: Mr. Edermont told me something which parts us for ever."
"What did he tell you?"
"I dare not say."
Dora rose slowly and looked steadily into his face. His eyes dropped before hers, and he would have turned away, but she compelled him to face her.
"Allen, you know who killed Mr. Edermont."
"No, no! As God is in heaven I do not!" he said vehemently. "I have my suspicions, but they count as nothing. Don't ask me anything, Dora, for I can tell you nothing."
"At least tell me why you wish our engagement ended," said she, very pale.
"I cannot," he groaned, and sank into a chair.
"Then listen to me, Allen," she said in a firm voice. "Until you tell me the reason of this conduct I refuse to release you from the engagement. I love you; you say that you love me; so there is no reason why we should part. If you will not speak, others will; and I shall devote myself to finding out the truth. When I do find it," she added slowly, "then we may part. Until then"--her voice rose--"you are my affianced husband."