"And you intend to tell Major Rebb?"
"No. Madge asked me to hold my tongue. And indeed, Gerald, I would do so for your own sake. Major Rebb is an ill man to meddle with."
Haskins threw back his head defiantly. "I am not afraid of Rebb," he said, in a haughty tone. "I went to see him to-day to explain myself, but he is in Devonshire: gone to see his unfortunate ward, I expect. When he returns I shall demand an explanation."
"He may not give it to you," said Mrs. Berch, pursing up her mouth.
"He must. I love Mavis and I intend to marry her."
"But if she is mad----"
"She is not mad, and----Well, Mrs. Berch, there is no use in my talking to you on the matter. I did wrong to speak to Madge about it, since she is to marry Major Rebb."
"Madge will hold her tongue as she promised, and so shall I, Gerald."
"Thank you both," replied Gerald courteously, "but there will be no need after to-morrow. I intend to see Rebb, as I said."
"To learn what?"