‘Never!’ said she, and the firmness with which she closed her lips was audible in the word.
‘Why not?’ he inquired.
‘There are good reasons.’
‘I cannot understand how you should know me, while I have no knowledge of you.’
‘Oh, but you know me—about me, at least.’
‘Indeed I don’t. How should I? You are a kimberlin.’
‘I am not. I am a real islander—or was, rather.... Haven’t you heard of the Best-Bed Stone Company?’
‘I should think so! They tried to ruin my father by getting away his trade—or, at least, the founder of the company did—old Bencomb.’
‘He’s my father!’
‘Indeed. I am sorry I should have spoken so disrespectfully of him, for I never knew him personally. After making over his large business to the company, he retired, I believe, to London?’