"I mean this, Miss Winter. A dozen words from me, and Heron Dyke would know you as its mistress no more."
"Then speak those words," said Ella, bravely. "It is your bounden duty to do so. I have no wish to keep what belongs to another."
Her tone was clear and decided. She believed there was something in this: that he meant what he said.
"Why should I speak them--and injure you? No. Give up this man, who cares only for your money, and my lips shall be sealed for ever."
"Do your duty, that is all I ask. I have no other word to say to you."
"Will you promise to give up this man?"
"No."
"Beware! You are driving me to desperation."
"I cannot help that."
"You have not a better word to say to me?"