‘You know what people will say of me–that I tried very hard for you, and married you for your money, and so on.’
‘Herrgott! yes. I know the whole of the jargon they will gabble amongst themselves. Let them, if they like.’
She looked utterly weary, exhausted and worn out. When she spoke her voice was scarce audible. He had to lean towards her to catch the faltering words:
‘If I do–will you–settle everything–no questions–no thinking? I cannot think.’
‘You shall hear no more about it until the Bürgermeister comes to marry us. A few words then, and the signing of your name, and all will be over.’
‘Very well. Arrange it all as you wish, and I will do it,’ said she, and turned her head away, and shut her eyes, as if too tired ever to open them again.
‘You shall not repent it. I promise that you shall not repent it,’ he said, carrying her passive hand to his lips.
Then he left the room. Outside he saw Mrs. Nelson, and took her aside into Sara’s atelier.
‘We shall be married to-morrow, Ellen,’ he observed.
‘Thank God, sir! I believe it will be the saving of my mistress.’ She paused, and added: ‘I hope you don’t think of separating us, sir–Miss Ford and me. It would be sorely distressing to us both.’