"I meant nothing that will stop your marriage," said Gerald crossly, "although I don't know why a nice woman like you, Madge, should marry him."
Mrs. Crosbie stared. "Major Rebb is supposed to be a delightful man."
"He may be--to those who don't know him."
"I believe that you are jealous," she said, with a nervous laugh, "well, and how does your secret affect the Major?"
"See here, Madge, you may think me mean, speaking about Rebb to you, and behind his back. But I am doing so at that risk, because I wish you to help some one in whom I am interested. Otherwise, I am quite ready to see Rebb personally and have it out with him. Later on--say in three weeks, more or less--I shall. For then I hope that Mavis will be with you here, and quite safe."
"Mavis! Ah, the girl you are in love with. What is she to Major Rebb, may I ask?" Mrs. Crosbie's voice rose when she put this question, and her eyes grew as hard as jade, while her face colored a deep red.
"Ah," said Haskins, surprised, "then you love Rebb?"
"No! But he is rich and----I don't see what right you have to ask me such questions. Go on. What have you to say?"
"If you love Rebb I can't speak."
"I don't love Rebb. Go on. I'll keep my promise."