"My family is far from poverty stricken, and I have a very good profession.

It is quite right you should know this." "What profession, may I ask ?" "Civil Engineer." "But not established, I imagine ?" "I had very good connections before the war.

Since returning from France, I have made no effort to renew these, or seek others.

I, of course, expect to do so later, and shall be in no way dependent upon Miss Coolidge's fortune." "Although quite willing to share it, I presume ?" "I think you have insinuated that often enough," returned West, at last fully aroused by the insolent words and manner of the other.

"Perhaps it may be well for us to have a plain understanding without further delay, Mr.Percival Coolidge.