“Don’t give it away at once,” she said in a low voice, as she played. “Begin with a formal demand in marriage and see how he takes it.”
“I shall do whatever seems to me judicious,” he answered, curtly.
“Remember I am an interested party,” she retorted. “There is such a thing as money to be considered, however much you may despise it.”
“You may trust to my not forgetting,” he replied.
The evening was over at last. He bade Minna good-bye.
“I should like to say a few words to you, Mr. Hart, before I go,” he remarked on his way downstairs. His host, cordiality itself, showed him into his study, poked the fire and lighted a cigar.
“Business?”
“Yes.”
“About the loan. I was wanting to discuss it. Best now, when we’re comfortable. Wait a moment—allow me. What is the chance of your being left a small legacy?”
“None whatever, I fear,” replied Hugh.