"Your son has an able advocate, Don Abrahan," she said, smiling a bit scornfully. "Do we have to go on with the discussion, only to come to nothing in the end?"
"It is soon done," Don Abrahan declared with sudden sternness, rising to his feet. "My son stands ready to forget the past, out of his great and honorable love for you."
Helena sprang up.
"Generous gentleman!" she mocked. "And if I refuse to marry him, the penalty will be publicity, disgrace."
"No. A gentleman learns early in life when to keep silent," Don Abrahan returned.
"You will reconsider your hasty words?"
"No!"
"You will think slowly, and speak slower. My son forgives the escapade of the oak tree."
"Forgives! What absolution can he show for his own crimes?"