"Oh! what shall I do? What shall I do?" she cried, wringing her hands wildly.
"Let me advise you; I am older and have had experience, and a claim on your obedience. Marry Doctor Wiseman; he is, I know, somewhat older than you, but you need a man of age and wisdom. He is rich, and loves you; and with him, conscious that you have done your duty, you will be blessed by God, and be happy."
"Happy!" she broke in, scornfully, "and with him! Happy!"
"It is the first favor I ever asked of you, Gipsy, and I know you will not refuse. No one must know of it, not one, save Lizzie and Mrs. Gower. You must not breathe it to a living soul, save them."
"Guardy, there is some guilt or mystery connected with this debt. What is it?"
"I cannot tell you now, child; when you have obeyed me, I will. Come, Doctor Wiseman will be here for your answer to-morrow. Shall I tell him you have consented?"
"Oh! no, no! no, no! Good heavens!" she cried, shudderingly.
"Gipsy! Gipsy! consent. I implore you, by all you hold dear on earth, and sacred in heaven, to consent!" he said, with wild vehemence.
"Oh! I cannot! I cannot! I cannot! Oh, Guardy, do not urge me to this living death," she cried passionately.
"Then you can see me die, child. This, then, is your gratitude!" he said, bitterly.