"What! You hold the mortgages on this property!" exclaimed Mr. Stafford. "And did you not know this until to-day?"
"No—I assure you I did not. You see, although an American, I was educated here, and returned again after my father's estate was settled on my coming of age. As I was traveling more or less all the time, I gave Mr. Jones a power of attorney and he invested my money as he thought best. Of course, if I were your son-in-law, the mortgage could stand as long as you wished—forever for that matter, and that too, without interest."
"And Kate refused you?" asked Mr. Stafford.
He was looking thoughtfully into the grate fire. What a difference that answer made to all of them?
Hall was watching him sharply, and appeared to be studying his reply before saying:
"Yes—but I think her decision could be reversed if you would use your influence—and it would be decidedly to your advantage to do so."
The menace contained in the last words was quite plain to Mr. Stafford.
"I shall certainly advise Kate to accept your offer; but that is as far I shall go—she must do as she pleases."
"Very well," said Hall rising, "I will make another effort and trust to your influence for success." This last with a significant look as he left the room.
When he was alone Mr. Stafford began to pace the floor, talking to himself.