"I know all, Molly. Except what you yourself say and think about it."
She had a piece of work in her hands, and she began to pull it and pick it as she replied. For the first time in my life I found Molly uncertain and hesitating.
"The captain says that it is the greatest honour that was ever offered to any woman to be raised from a lowly condition to a high rank—and all for love."
"All for love?" I asked.
"Why, what else can it be that made him fight for me with that desperate villain? He risked his life. Whatever happens, Jack, I cannot forget that."
"No. It was doubtless a great thing to do. Has he told you himself that it was all for love?"
"He has not spoken about love at all. He has never once been alone with me. It seems that these great people make love by message. He sent a message by Sam Semple."
"A very fine messenger of Cupid, truly!"
"Offering marriage. The captain cannot contain his satisfaction and sits glum. My mother says she will never be able to see me again and begins to cry."
"Well—but, Molly, to be sure it is a great thing to become a countess. Most women would jump at the chance, under any conditions. Do you, however, think that you can love the man?"