"I have!"
Her point was gained. She no more meant her horrible suggestion to be realized, than he meant to realize it. They were both trying each other. She, to see the extent of her power; he, to ascertain the truth of his suspicions.
Imagining her power great enough to lead him into any crime, she burst out laughing.
"And do you mean to say you thought me serious, Marmaduke?"
"I did."
"Then what a villain you must be!"
"I am only your slave."
She shook her head at him, and said,—
"Slaves should not listen to such thoughts. If I thought you were serious, I should loathe you."
"And I should loathe myself," he said, coldly.