And at the same moment she drew forth her purse, which she had been holding ready in her hand.
For a second he thought she was referring to the price of rent-collecting, but the appearance of the purse explained her meaning.
"Oh! There's no charge!" he said, in a low voice, seizing a penholder.
"But I must pay you something! I can't--" "No, you mustn't!" Their glances met in conflict across the table.

She had known that he would say exactly that.

And she had been determined to insist on paying a fee--utterly determined! But she could not, now, withstand the force of his will.

Her glance failed her.

She was disconcerted by the sudden demonstration of her inferiority.