“Then you must give me time. I said that I loved you but I am not sure that it is true. When I remember, I feel that I loathe you.”
“I think I prefer loathing to indifference. Still, your request is not unreasonable and I am willing to give you time.
“Thank you—and in the meantime?” she asked nervously.
“In the meantime it shall be just as you wish. One question more. If I were to take steps—practical steps to help the natives, would that count in my favor?”
“Yes. But what can you do?” she asked wonderingly.
“Now that I have this additional motive, I may find a means. Mildred, dear, you have shown me an unsuspected side of your nature, but I think I am glad.”
“Be patient with me, John. I think I am only just beginning to find out myself, and it is a painful experience,” she said with a wistful smile.
She had moved towards the door, and he followed quickly after her, took her hand and raised it to his lips.
“I shall win. I shall win,” he said with grim determination.
Lady Mildred went straight to the nursery and sat down by the cot where the child was sleeping. In speaking to her husband she had been absolutely frank, and now, when she thought over what she had said, she was amazed at herself. For a long time she sat there and wondered what John would do.