Sonia was worsted, but she would not admit defeat without a last struggle.
"And when you come back you will find us married," she answered in a level voice.
"I'll come back for your wedding!" he laughed.
"I forget how long you said...."
"My child, you won't be married to Crabtree in three years."
"David, to-night before dinner——"
O'Rane waved his hand in deprecation.
"I don't disbelieve you! Will you give me your blessing before I start? I'm supposed to be superstitious, and as I'm beginning again from the bottom of the ladder—God! it's nearly ten years since my last effort—Part friends, Sonia."
"I don't care if I never see you again!" she answered passionately. "You simply think of new ways of trying to humiliate me——"
"Lord be praised there's still some one fond enough of you to try," he murmured half to himself.