The heat of the rooms became very oppressive during the evening, and Isabel stepped out on the lawn to enjoy the refreshing breeze, but was soon surprized
to find that Louis had followed her.
"Let us at least be friends," he said. "You will remember that it was not in anger we last parted."
But Isabel was silent.
"You doubt me," he continued. "I do not blame you, but you are harsh, Miss Leicester."
"Not harsh, but just," returned Isabel. "Friends we can never be; enemies I trust we never were."
"You draw fine distinctions. May I ask what place in your estimation I am permitted to occupy?" said Louis, sarcastically.
"No place whatever, Dr. Taschereau; I must ever regard you with indifference," returned Isabel, coldly.
"Be it so," he replied, angrily. "You have obstinately refused all offers of reconciliation, and must therefore take the consequences."
"The consequences? You speak strangely, Dr. Taschereau."