"You'll pardon me for laughing," she giggled.
"With all my heart," he replied gallantly. "It must be very funny. However, this is not business. You are in a hurry to get away from here and—I'm not, it seems. Briefly, Mrs. Delancy, I have the papers you are to sign before we begin your action against the Fairwater estate. You know what they are through Mr. Rolfe."
"Well, I'm sorry, Mr. Crosby, to say to you that I have decided to abandon the matter. A satisfactory compromise is under way."
"So I've been told. But are you sure you understand yourself?"
"Perfectly, thank you."
"This is a very unsatisfactory place from which to argue my case, Mrs.
Delancy. Can't you dispose of the dog?"
"Only God disposes."
"Well, do you mind telling me what the compromise provides?" She stared at him for a moment haughtily, but his smile won the point for him. She told him everything and then looked very much displeased when he swore distinctly.
"Pardon me, but you are getting very much the worst of it in this deal. It is the most contemptible scheme to rob that I ever heard of. By this arrangement you are to get farming lands and building lots in rural towns worth in all about $100,000, I'd say. Don't you know that you are entitled to nearly half a million?"
"Oh, dear, no. By right, my share is less than $75,000," she cried triumphantly.