"For God's sake, Sissy! I must think a moment." He buried his face in his hands.
"Oh, you are cruel!" she whispered.
How could he think? Sissy loved him—had always loved him. It was all plain to him now. He had been blind, and he had come back to find out the truth the day after he had pledged himself to Judith Lisle!
"Don't be unkind to me, Percival: I can't bear it, dear."
How could he stab her to the heart by a refusal of that which he so sorely needed? How could he tell her of his engagement? How could he keep silence, and take her money to spend it with Judith?
"Say 'Yes,' Percival. It is mine. Why not? why not?"
He spoke through his clasped hands: "One moment more."
"I shall never ask you anything again," she whispered. "Oh, Percival, be good to me!"
He raised his head and looked earnestly at her. He must be true, happen what might.
"Sissy, God knows I thank you for your goodness. I sha'n't forget it, living or dying. If only you might be spared—"