"Yes, sir. Will you come in?"
Wolverton had not the good manners to acknowledge the invitation with thanks, but strode into the sitting-room, following Bob.
The widow anticipated his visit, having been informed by Bob that he had announced his intention of coming.
"Good-evening, Mr. Wolverton. Take a seat," she said, pointing to a chair a few feet from her own. "Robert, take Mr. Wolverton's hat."
Wolverton looked at the widow with a hungry gaze, for she was the only woman, he had ever loved.
"If she would only marry me, all her troubles would be over," he said to himself. "She's a fool to refuse."
We, who have some idea of Mr. Wolverton's character and disposition, are more likely to conclude that marriage with such a man would be only the beginning of trouble.
"I've come on business, Mrs. Burton," said the visitor, in an aggressive tone.
"State it, if you please, Mr. Wolverton," the widow answered, calmly.
"Hadn't you better send your son out of the room? We'd better discuss this matter alone."