"She has not changed? Rhoda—for we used to talk of you so often! You will think better of me, by-and-by.
"Naturally enough, you detest me at present. I have been a brute. I can't explain it, and I don't excuse myself. I state the fact to you— her sister. My desire is to make up for the past. Will you take a message to her from me?"
"I will not."
"You are particularly positive."
Remarks touching herself Rhoda passed by.
"Why are you so decided?" he said more urgently. "I know I have deeply offended and hurt you. I wish, and intend to repair the wrong to the utmost of my power. Surely it's mere silly vindictiveness on your part to seek to thwart me. Go to her; say I am here. At all events, let it be her choice not to see me, if I am to be rejected at the door. She can't have had my letter. Will you do that much?"
"She knows that you are here; she has seen you."
"Has seen me?" Edward drew in his breath sharply. "Well? and she sends you out to me?"
Rhoda did not answer. She was strongly tempted to belie Dahlia's frame of mind.
"She does send you to speak to me," Edward insisted.