But although the Sahib spoke harshly, his heart was beating very warmly towards her just then. He had always considered Mona a clever and charming girl—a little too independent, perhaps, but her habitual independence made it the more delightful to see her submitting like a child to his questions, holding herself bound apparently for the moment to answer honestly without fencing, however much the effort might cost her.
"It is the truth, and nothing but the truth." she said. "I venture sometimes to think it is not the whole truth."
"Shall you go in again?"
"Yes."
"When?"
"July."
"Do you think you will pass?"
"No."
"Then why do you do it?"
"I have promised."