“Well––well, then,” he stammered; “––what––what sort of procedure–––”

“None.”

“You’re crazy,” he said; “you wouldn’t do that!”

“If I were in love with you I’d not be afraid.”

Her calm candour infuriated him:

“Do you imagine that you and I could ever get away with a situation like that!” he blazed out.

“Why do you become so irritable and excited, Jim? We’re not going to try–––”

“Damnation! I should think not!” he retorted, so violently that her mouth quivered. But she kept her 115 head averted until the swift emotion was under control.

Then she said in a low voice: “If you really think me immoral, Jim, I can understand your manner toward me. Otherwise–––”

“Palla, dear! Forgive me! I’m just worried sick–––”