"You were very considerate," she said. "But I'm afraid what you wish is impossible."
"Wait!" he begged. "I haven't said much about myself, but I believe I appreciate you better than any of the boys is capable of doing; I could carry your wishes further and take more care of you." He paused with a grave smile. "I'm not a romantic person, but I think I'm trustworthy. Then, it would please your father."
"Ah! You have told him?"
"Yes; and he was good enough to express his full approval."
Beatrice's face was disturbed, but she answered frankly:
"Though I know you won't take an unfair advantage of his consent, I wish you hadn't gone to him. It may make things more difficult for me. And now, please understand that I cannot marry you."
Brand's lips came together in a straight line. He did not have a pleasant look; but his voice was unusually suave when he answered:
"It looks as if I must face my disappointment. I'll do nothing that might embarrass you. All the same, I warn you that I shall not despair."
"You must not think of me," Beatrice said firmly. "I'm very sorry, but I want to save you trouble."
He quietly picked up his horse's bridle.