“‘By the by, have you ever mentioned our engagement to brother Harry?’
“‘Oh, yes, I named it to him before I did to any one else.’
“‘And what did he think of it?’
“‘He was glad of it—said it was just what he expected and desired—congratulated me heartily—said I was a lucky fellow to be the winner of such a heart—said he knew you loved me, all the time—told me that if ever I caused you trouble he would kill me—and, to tell you the truth, Lottie, I believe he would kill any one who would bring trouble on you.’
“‘Oh, he is such a noble, generous, heroic brother! Viola loves him, and I hope they will make a match of it.’
“‘Ah, Lottie, that will never happen.’
“‘May I know the reason why you think so?’
“‘Viola is a great heiress, and you know how proud Harry is; no matter how much he might love her, he would never tell her of it. Do you know that I think the only fault Harry has is his unprecedented pride? I have been acquainted with many proud men, but there is something in Harry’s pride that places it beyond anything I ever have witnessed in other people. No, Lottie, let me advise you not to build your pyramid of hopes on a foundation of that sort.’
“‘Is Mr. Bramlett very wealthy?’
“‘Mr. Rockland tells me that he is a millionaire, and you know he has only two children.’