"The matter is delicate, and I knew you would send for me if you thought
I could be of use."
"You can be of use. Unless I take up the fellow's bill, Gerald will go to jail."
Thorn made a sign of sympathy. He was surprised by Osborn's bluntness, which implied that the latter was desperate. "That must be prevented. I'll give you a cheque."
He took out his cheque book, and then stopped, and Osborn asked: "Is this a free loan, Alan? I mean, is it made without conditions?"
"A gift, if you like. Anyhow, I won't bother you about repayment. We can't talk about conditions; but I have something to ask."
"Grace?" said Osborn, rather hoarsely.
"Yes," said Thorn, with a hint of embarrassment. "I want Grace. It's an awkward situation. I don't want to urge that I deserve my reward, but I've waited a long time and thought you approved."
"I did approve. I hoped she'd marry you, but I imagined she could be persuaded and would do so willingly. However, it looks as if I was mistaken."
Thorn leaned forward, fixing his eyes on Osborn.
"Grace is young, and perhaps I don't make a strong appeal to her romantic feelings, but I belong to her rank and her views and tastes are mine. That is much. Also, I can indulge and give her all she likes; the refinements and comforts to which she is, in a sense, entitled. After all, they count for something. I'm trying to be practical, but I love her."