I should have to stay behind to face the music of his wrath alone.

Still, at the risk of appearing brutal I made my proposal in plain terms; but, to minimise that risk, I ventured to take the lady's hand and was glad to find the familiarity permitted in the same friendly spirit in which it was indulged.
"I would have no 'and then,'" I said, "if I were you.

I should refuse him under such circumstances that he couldn't possibly bother you, or himself about you, again.

Now is your opportunity." "Is it ?" she asked, a thrilling timbre in her low voice.

And I fancied there was a kindred tremor in the firm warm hand within mine.
"The best of opportunities," I replied, "if you are not too wedded to this place, and can tear yourself away from the rest of us." (Her hand lay loose in mine.) "Mrs.Lascelles, I should go to-morrow morning" (her hand fell away altogether), "while he is still up the Matterhorn and I shouldn't let him know where I--shouldn't give him a chance of finding out--" A sudden peal of laughter cut me short.