"The money itself vas nothing to me, but I hoped that through Friedrich's poverty I might gain some power over him, and make him do vhat I vanted. I shall see that it is r-restored to you at once, Friedrich."
She turned to Wendell, and her face changed subtly. She became the tempting woman, alluring in the innocence of her child-like beauty.
"Do you still mean vhat you said to me yesterday, Mr. Vendell?"
She leaned towards him a trifle—the merest trifle. Wendell stood silent.
"Do you still vant to marry me—John?" The name was but a breath.
He stared at her as if fascinated by the spell of her glowing eyes. With an effort he looked away from her to von Rittenheim.
"Tell me," he said, huskily, "I don't understand. Her husband? Is——?"
"She will not dishonor you," answered Friedrich to the unspoken question.
"She'll merely br-reak your heart," completed von Sternburg, brutally.
Wendell turned to Hilda in relief, to find her drawn haughtily erect before him. She did not notice his extended hands.