"I was afraid so."
"Afraid?"
"Oh, I don't know how Thusis is going to behave,—how she is going to take it!" said Clelia in frank anxiety. "Never before has she cared for any man; and I don't know what she's going to do about you—indeed I don't, Mr. O'Ryan!"
"Could you tell me," said I bluntly, "what obstacles stand in the way of my marrying your sister?"
"Thusis should tell you."
"She isn't already married?"
"Good Heavens, no!"
"Is it a matter of religion?"
"Thusis must tell you. I could not speak for her,—interfere with her. My sister will act for herself—assume all responsibility for whatever she chooses to do.... As I do."
I took Clelia's soft hands in mine and looked earnestly into her face: