"I only—dreaded it. His father—died of it. Oh, sir—oh, Barnabas! there is no one else who will help him—save him from—that! You will try, won't you?"
"Yes," said Barnabas, setting his jaw, "no one can help a man against his will, but I'll try. And I ask you to remember that if I succeed or not, I shall never expect any recompense from you, never!"
"Unless, Barnabas—" said Cleone, softly.
"Unless—oh, Cleone, unless you should—some day learn to—love me—just a little, Cleone?"
"Would—just a little, satisfy you?"
"No," said Barnabas, "no, I want you all—all—all. Oh, Cleone, will you marry me?"
"You are very persistent, sir, and I must go."
"Not yet,—pray not yet."
"Please, Barnabas. I would not care to see Mr. Chichester—to-night."
"No," sighed Barnabas, "you must go. But first,—will you—?"