Clarice looked hard at him, and wondered if it would be wise for her to admit that she had seen Prudence, and knew the reason why the engagement had been broken off. A moment's reflection convinced her that, in dealing with so shifty a young man as he was, it would be better to deny all knowledge. Ferdy was playing some game, she was certain, and what the game might be, she wanted very much to learn. If she gave him rope enough he would assuredly hang himself, so this she proceeded to do, by pretending ignorance. "You hinted when we last met that there was some misunderstanding between you."
"There is no misunderstanding on my part," cried Ferdy, falling at once into the trap. "I love Prudence, and I am willing to marry her. But she refuses to marry me, and has broken off the engagement."
"Indeed. And what reason does she assign for this sudden change?"
"Her father will not accept me as his son-in-law."
"On what grounds?"
Ferdy shrugged his shoulders. "Mr. Clarke, according to Prudence, does not approve of the match."
"Have you been doing anything to make him disapprove?" asked Clarice, quickly and pointedly.
"No!" replied Ferdy, indignantly, "I don't know why you are always suspecting me of doing wrong, Clarry. I'm straight--that is, I am as straight as most fellows."
"That is not saying much," rejoined Clarice, sarcastically.
"Well, then, I am as straight as Ackworth."