“It is an ancient fancy,” she said, “and these moderns are more wise. They say a man must give his first thought to”—her voice dropped and broke—“his wife!”
She drew her hands from his, and covered her face with them. While yet her face was hidden in them she spoke:—
“You will make her—your wife?”
He could not answer. Her hands dropped from her face to clinch now at her sides.
“Answer, if you please!” she said.
“It is my father’s command,” he said in a low voice.
“Your father’s command is greater, then, than mine?” she demanded with fierceness.
“O Sado-ko, do you not perceive my despair?”
“‘Look!’ cried Sado-ko, clutching his sleeve.”