“There was nothing said about passion,” I answered hotly.
“Then why the deuce did you buy it?” he said with some pertinence.
This staggered me.
“A man may fancy a thing, without indulging in a passion, I suppose,” I replied.
Nick held the picture at arm's length in the palm of his hand and regarded it critically.
“Faith,” said he, “you may thank heaven it is only a picture. If such a one ever got hold of you, Davy, she would general you even as you general me. Egad,” he added with a laugh, “there would be no more walking the streets at night in search of adventure for you. Consider carefully the masterful features of that lady and thank God you haven't got her.”
I was inclined to be angry, but ended by laughing.
“There will be no rivalry between us, at least,” I said.
“Rivalry!” exclaimed Nick. “Heaven forbid that I should aspire to such abject slavery. When I marry, it will be to command.”
“All the more honor in such a conquest,” I suggested.