"I know no reason," said Dick. "She loves me, and that is enough."
The greyness deepened over Austin's face and the pain in his eyes.
"I must speak, then, in plain terms. That horrible murder impulse is the reason. Today, in a fit of frenzied jealousy, you would have killed me, your brother. Is there any guarantee that, in another fit of frenzied jealousy, you might not--?"
A shudder ran through Dick's great frame. He stretched out his hand. "For God's sake--don't."
"I must--until you see this ghastly business in its true aspect. Look at the lighter side of Viviette's character. She is gay, fond of admiration, childishly fond of teasing, a bright creature of bewildering moods. Would she be safe in your hands? Might you not one day again see things red before your eyes and again go mad?"
"Don't say any more," Dick said in a choking voice. "I can't stand it."
"Heaven knows, I didn't want to say as much."
Dick shuddered again. "Yes, you are right. I am a man with a curse. I can't marry her. I daren't."