"I have nothing to explain. Did you come here to insult me?"
"Of course," replied Prelice, rising; "and now that I have done so, I may as well take my leave."
She seized him by the lapels of his coat before he could reach the door. "Don't go, don't go," she panted; "I do so want a friend. I'll tell you all; you shall know everything."
"If it is against your husband, I sha'n't listen."
"You shall! Sit down, and hear what I have to say."
Prelice was a strong young man, but for the moment her feminine strength prevailed, and he found himself forced into his former seat.
"I wouldn't say what I'm going to say to everyone," panted Mrs. Rover, who was very strongly moved, "but, even though we have been apart for so many years, I still regard you as my best friend. You and I were boy and girl together, Dorry—you remember——"
"Ned also," interposed Prelice pointedly.
"Yes! Yes. Of course. I always loved Ned."
"Constance, what are you saying?"