But I must tell you Marian's story before this business goes any farther.

Will you come and smoke your cigar with me to-night?
She is going to drink tea at a neighbour's, and we shall be alone.

They are all fond of her, poor child." "I shall be very happy to come.

And in the meantime, you will try and ascertain the real state of her feelings without distressing her in any way; and you will tell me the truth with all frankness, even if it is to be a deathblow to all my hopes ?" "Even if it should be that.

But I do not fear such a melancholy result.