There was no interrogation in those four words.
"Well, yes; it is true." He hurried on, fearing that she might interrupt him. "I wanted to spare you knowledge of that. Fortune has placed in my hands a weapon. I am using it for both our sakes. Between our two selves, my dearest, I can admit to you that I should not really ruin your father. What an idea!"
"Then you are bluffing?"
"I am. I want you so desperately."
He attempted to kiss her, but she repulsed him gently.
"If mother knew——"
"She need not know. Your father will climb down at the last moment. He knows, and Tomlin knows, that I can ruin both of them."
"It's as bad as that?"
"Yes. He must surrender!"
"But if he shouldn't? Jim, dear, you said last night that you would take me as I am; and I loved you for saying that. Now, you want to bargain for me."