"Your wife!" cried Dora, shrinking back with visible repugnance.
"Ah, I know that I am old," said Joad piteously, "but reflect. There is much to be gained by you. I cannot live long; you would soon be my widow. I would leave you all the money; and think how rich you would be!"
"I wouldn't marry you if you offered me millions!" said Dora with contempt. "I love one man only, and him only shall I marry."
Joad rose in a fury. "Don't tell me his name!" he shrieked; "I know it. Allen--that miserable wretch! But you shall never marry him--never!"
"How can you prevent our marriage?"
"By telling the truth--by gaining the fortune!" He stepped forward and seized her wrist. "I hold the life of your lover in the hollow of my hand!"
"What do you mean?" panted Dora. "Explain!"
"You wish to know my secrets. Well, I shall tell you one--one only--that will make your heart sore and your face white. Who killed Julian? Who came here in the dead of night and struck his foul blow? Who but Allen Scott--Allen Scott, the murderer! Curse him!"