"I don't think you ought to take unnecessary risks," she murmured.
This was sweet to Jack. In order to get more of it he made believe not to see her drift. "As to that," he said carelessly, "the risk is no greater than it's been right along."
She shook her head. "No, I feel he means what he says. It was a warning. He has a queer sense of fair play."
The enraptured Jack forgot Mr. B. and all else. "Kitty, do you realize what you're saying!" he cried. "Do you mean you are satisfied I've done my job, and are willing to marry me now? You blessed darling! We could get a license this afternoon. We don't need any further preparations, do we? Oh, what happiness!"
"I wouldn't marry you at an hour's notice—or any man!" said Kate with an indignation, somewhat weakened by the consciousness of her inconsistency. "I need weeks to get ready in!"
"Weeks!" echoed Jack with falling countenance.
"Well, days, anyway."
"But will you, in a week?"
"Will you give up the chase of this man? Turn your case over to the police now. After all it's their business."
A reaction took place in Jack. "Oh, Kitty!" he said in distress. "How can I? All my life I'd feel as if I'd left my job half finished. I'd feel as if I'd been scared off. How could I respect myself? How could you respect me?"