"And if I have?"
"Oh, nothing—only I think it ought to be duly reported in the religious papers."
Leicester still kept himself under control, nevertheless Sprague's sneers were telling on him.
"Besides," went on his tormentor, "you've hardly played the game, Leicester. The understanding was that you were to win her as an atheist, hard drinker, and a cynic, whereas you've turned moral reformer. You've been wearing a mask."
"Well, that's not your business."
"I think it is. Anyhow, you admit that this engagement is a grim joke."
"I repeat that that is not your business," said Leicester; "if I send the cheque to the hospital, the matter is done with, as far as you are concerned."
"And you really mean to say that you are a reformed character? I sincerely congratulate you."
"If you mean by that that I believe in your profession or your drawing-room meetings, no. I regard them as I always did."
"Then you have been simply playing a part with Miss Castlemaine?"