"Yes."
Malcolm Dean could not conceal his joyful surprise.
"I cannot comprehend her rejection of your suit. I should have thought you irresistible."
Devereaux struggled a moment with natural pride and selfishness, then answered:
"She preferred you."
"Me? How should you know?"
"By her own confession to me."
Malcolm Dean was frankly staggered by his friend's statement. His blue eyes gleamed with joy and his bosom heaved with pride.
"You have made me very happy, but how very, very strange that she should have made such a confession to you," he cried, in wonder.