“And why not, may I ask?”
“Because he is in love.”
“In love!” he exclaimed, his jaw setting hard.
“He is in love with Lydia.”
“I'll put a stop to that!”
“And why, may I ask?” she mimicked.
“Because—why——” he burst out, but instantly collected himself. “He is not in a position to marry, that's all.”
“Financially?”
He swallowed hard. “Yes.”
“Poof!” she exclaimed, dismissing the obstacle with a wave of her slim hand. “A cigarette, please. There is another reason why he shouldn't go—an excellent one.”