"You would fight single-handed if I were here, I'm afraid. Nobody can help you much. The most I can do is to try to convince you that you must fight. You must show Julie her place, and show her soon. Don't be soft-hearted about it. She's not soft, trust my word. You are dealing with an enemy—understand it clearly. She is an enemy and a clever one. Julie could not prevent your marriage, but she may break it."
She paled at the conviction of his tone.
"I can't believe it!"
"Can't you? I tell you the process of alienation has begun. Doesn't Craig think you indifferent about the studio?"
"Perhaps. I had reasons—"
"Chuck them away."
"And he knows I've been busy with Richter. Craig himself is lukewarm about the studio."
"You must not be. It may be your battle-ground. I don't say it will; but it may be, and it behooves you to look after your defences." He glowered at the painted face a moment, then: "You may know that the Chameleon was Julie's own choice for sister-in-law. Yes? It's a fact worth thinking over. Good-by, Jean, and good luck! I haven't been agreeable, but I've spoken as a friend. You feel that, I hope?"
"Yes," she answered unsteadily; "and thank you."
MacGregor winced as her voice broke.