“Then why do you seek revenge?” I demanded ruthlessly.
“For reasons known to myself—reasons I refuse for the present to disclose,” she replied, regarding me with unwavering glance.
“And you expect me to again repose confidence in you, notwithstanding your steady refusal to explain anything?” I observed, with a laugh.
“All I have told you now, Geoffrey, is the truth,” she replied, looking earnestly into my eyes. “Once I deceived you, but I will never do so in future. I promise some day before long to explain all the facts to you; when I do so they will astound you. For the success of my plans I am compelled at present to preserve my secret, even from you.”
“What are your plans?”
“Be patient, and you shall see.”
“You intend to avenge Dudley’s death?”
“I do; and something further,” she said. “Only by the most careful investigation and the strictest secrecy can my plans be successfully carried out. Trust in me, Geoffrey. Tell me that you will reconsider your decision not to forgive me,” she whispered, leaning upon my shoulder with one arm entwined affectionately about my neck, as was her habit. “And I will yet prove to you that I am an honest woman who has acted only in your interests.”
“In my interests? How?” I asked, amazed.
“You shall know all later, when I have ascertained the truth.”