"It seems, Countess Strahni," he said slowly, smiling at her, "that our positions are now reversed—you the captor—I the prisoner. And yet, as you see," with a shrug, "I am making no effort to escape. You have led captivity captive."
His phrases were too well spoken, and the look in his eyes disturbed her.
"You—you wish me to understand that I am free to go——"
"Hardly that," he interrupted with a short laugh. "Only this morning you said that you would kill me if you dared. I do not relish the notion of being delivered into the hands of the police."
"You think that I would do that?" she questioned.
"Wouldn't you?"
"I don't know. I——"
"I am sure of it. I am no longer under any illusions with regard to your sentiments toward myself. This morning I uncovered my heart to you—and you plunged a dagger into it. It was too much—beyond my deserts. I am no man for a woman to spit upon, Countess Strahni. You are still a prisoner—as completely under my power as though you and I were the last people left upon the earth."
His tone was mild, but there was a depth of meaning under it.
"I—I can scarcely be unaware of it," she murmured. "What are you going to do with me?"