The irritation in Hester's mind had not abated, and she returned this laconic answer:—
"CADOGAN PLACE, 13th June 1841.
"Not for six thousand.
"H. M."
Sir Chetsom was alarmed. The idea of her quitting him was more than he could endure. Completely fascinated by her, the more he knew of her, the more hopelessly he became her slave. He could not imagine living without her.
He called; was refused admittance; called again; was refused again; wrote, and received back his letter unopened.
He was in despair. So great was his preoccupation, that he actually went out with his whiskers unoiled and undyed! Hester's servant at length took pity on his sorrow, and consented to let him enter the house, against her orders.
He stole up to her boudoir, and throwing himself at her feet, said,—
"Hester, I cannot exist without you."
"But I can without you," she said, smiling.