He groaned, aloud. "I know Paul better than you do," he urged in a bitter tone. "I know him better in the last hour, than in the six years which have preceded it. Oh, Gerty, cannot you understand that it is solely for your good, I urge you to pause before you bind yourself! Wait only one year. If your attachment continues, it will be time enough then, and Paul will have established himself in business."
"He says his success is in a great measure dependent on me," she answered in a pleading tone; "that a gentleman with a family can gain access to society where another would be excluded. I gave him my promise freely, and unless he releases me I shall hold myself bound to keep it."
"Just the words he uses," muttered Edward angrily.
"If he isn't good, and all that, why did you bring him here?" she asked in a triumphant tone.
"I considered him a gentleman; and as I had paid repeated visits to his house, I wished to return his hospitality. To-morrow morning I shall go to New York for an interview with your guardian. You must promise me that this foolish affair shall proceed no farther until you have his sanction."
"I have already given promises enough for one day," was her evasive answer, "besides, his opinion will have no weight with me. I know what is necessary for my own happiness."
"The law gives him power, Gertrude."
"Over my property," she rejoined laughing; "but not over my person."
"Paul has an apt scholar, I see," he remarked bitterly.
"He only taught me how to defend my rights; but seriously Ned, I wish you would tell me whether I have any money. I must buy wedding clothes, you know."