“Because,” she proceeded, gravely, “all the money you possess would not compensate me for the position you have placed me in.” 151
“Well, perhaps I did have money in mind. However, I hold to my word. Anything you may ask.”
“Some day I will ask you for something.”
“And if humanly possible I promise to give it,” and with this Cleigh took leave.
Jane turned to Dennison.
“It is so strange and incomprehensible! You two sitting here and ignoring each other! Surely you don’t hate your father?”
“I have the greatest respect and admiration for him. To you no doubt it seems fantastic; but we understand each other thoroughly, my father and I. I’d take his hand instantly, God knows, if he offered it! But if I offered mine it would be glass against diamond—I’d only get badly scratched. Suppose we go on deck? The air and the sunshine——”
“But this catastrophe has brought you together after all these years. Isn’t there something providential in that?”
“Who can say?”
On deck they fell in behind Cleigh, and followed him round for fully an hour; then Jane signified that she was tired, and Dennison put her in the centre chair and wrapped the rug about her. He selected the chair at her right.