"If it must be so, it must," returned Edwin, in a tone of resignation. "And now, as we are to be married to-morrow, let us dine together. I have an invitation from my aunt at Putney to stay with her until my goods have been seized and sold. I am off. She will extend to you her hospitality."
"Oh, my betrothed, I cannot come." she sobbed. "I am kept here by duty."
"Well, as you will," he replied, carelessly. "But I suppose we meet at noon at the registrar's to-morrow?"
"Yes, for by that time all will be over. The goods will be removed, and I shall be free—free to become your wife."
"But what have you got to do with my property?"
Then came the sorrowful admission.
"Oh, Edwin, my own. You know I am in a lawyer's office. For the moment I am their guardian. Yes, darling, I am the woman in possession!"
