Grace calmly waited for the other to lapse into uncertain silence, then said, "This note tells me definitely that I am offered another position, but you tell me nothing. It was I who sent Mr. Clinton to Springfield to look into the private record of that Fran."
"You see," Gregory explained, "he was afraid I might think it presumptuous of him to do that, it was like doubting my word, so he came to me—however, he is back and there is nothing to reveal, absolutely nothing to reveal."
"Is he sure that the girl is no impostor?"
"He knows she isn't. His pockets are full of proofs. I know you sent Bob on my account, Grace, but alas! Fran is a reality—she can't be dismissed."
"It seems I can be. But of course I am nothing."
"Grace! You are everything."
She laughed. "Everything! At the word of an Abbott Ashton, a disgraced school-teacher, you make me less than nothing!"
He cried out impetuously, "Shall I tell you why we must part?"
Grace returned with a somber look, "So Fran is to have my place!"
Gregory interposed passionately, "It is because I love you."