"It has something to do with her first marriage," said Vesper, sharply. "Did she promise her husband not to marry again?"
Agapit would not answer him.
"You are putting me off with some silly bugbear," said Vesper, contemptuously.
"A bugbear! holy mother of angels, it is a question of the honor of our race. But for that, I would tell you."
"You do not wish her to marry me because I am an American."
"I would be proud to have her marry an American," said Agapit, vehemently.
"I shall not waste more time on you," said Vesper, disdainfully. "Rose will explain."
"You must not go to her," said Agapit, blocking his way. "She is in a strange state. I fear for her reason."
"You do," muttered Vesper, "and you try to keep me from her?"
Agapit stood obstinately pressing his back against the door.