Gazing intently upon his daughter, he replied:
"Yes, there is one way out of this dilemma, and only one. But do not ask me now, for I cannot expect aid in that direction—no, it would be asking too much of my loved one."
"Tell us to what you refer; if in our power to assist, the danger might be averted."
Like a drowning man catching at straws, he seemed to be filled with hope of rescue; hesitating a moment, he said:
"You, my daughter, can save me."
The bewildered girl started with surprise.
"I can save you? How?"
"By becoming the wife of Walter Mannis."
The unexpected words went with crushing effect to the daughter's heart, causing her to sink into a chair. Choking spasmodically for a moment, she regained her feet, and replied:
"Marry him? No, I would die, beg, or even starve, before becoming his wife. Oh, you know not what you ask."