"Well," he explained, "there was a reason. I was pretty low down in the world; I hadn't much to offer, and I wouldn't have you think I wanted you for your money. Now I've got on; I begin to see how I'm going to make a big success. There's no longer anything to stop my claiming you."
This sounded sincere, but it was unthinkable that she should feel any tenderness for the man, and he must be made to understand.
"Mr. Mappin," she began; but he checked her.
"Let me get through. You shall have all you want: a house in Montreal or Toronto, as you like, smart friends and position—guess if I set my mind on it I can get them. In fact, you shall have what you wish—you'll only need to ask for it. I want my wife to take a leading place, and I'll see she gets there."
"I'm sorry, but it's impossible for me to marry you," said Geraldine firmly.
Mappin regarded her with a grim smile.
"You look as if you meant it."
"I do." Geraldine tried hard to preserve her calm. "Please understand that my mind is made up."
"Oh," he replied tolerantly, "I didn't expect to get you first try. Guess I'll have to wait until you get used to the idea."
"I shall never get used to it!"