She clapped her hands. “I thought so. She backed you with that uncounted fortune her husband left her. Is that it?”
“That is it exactly. She gave me a free hand, and the immense fortune she inherited from Harley put me in a position to force recognition from the leaders. After that it was only a question of time till I had convinced them my plan was good.” He threw back his shoulders and tried to take the fence again. “Would you like to know why Mrs. Harley put her fortune at my command?”
“I suppose because she is interested in us and our little affair. Doesn’t all the world love a lover?” she asked, with a disarming candor.
“She had a better reason,” he said, meeting her eyes gravely.
“You must tell me it—but not just yet. I have something to tell you first.” She held out her little clenched hand. “Here is something that belongs to you. Can you open it?”
He straightened her fingers one by one, and took from her palm the engagement-ring he had given her. Instantly he looked up, doubt and relief sweeping his face.
“Am I to understand that you terminate our engagement?”
She nodded.
“May I ask why?”
“I couldn’t bring myself to it, Waring. I honestly tried, but I couldn’t do it.”