"Well, why not?"

"Because it's paltry and weak of you—he doesn't deserve your forgiveness—and you've no right to forgive him for what he did to another woman."

"Do you think I haven't considered that other woman?"

"You must have. But—egad!—you're so calm about it. Don't you realise what all this means—to her?"

"You think I ought to make him marry her?"

"Of course not—she wouldn't have him if she was paid. But—but how can you marry him, Tony?"

She bit her lip.

"I'm sorry I put things so bluntly, but I'm always a blundering ass when I'm excited. Tony, you're not to marry this man."

By her mounting colour he saw that he had said too much.