I have determined upon receiving them, for the best of all possible reasons--I can't help myself.

You will, therefore, add to the obligations of this day, by saying nothing about what has been made known to you." "Most certainly, sir; I will pledge you my honour, if it is requested." "When I say not mention it, I mean to other parties; but to the girls, I must request you to state the facts.

I will not have them come here, pawing and fondling, and wheedling me as an old bachelor, with a few lacs of rupees to be coaxed out of.

It would make me sick; I detest women and their ways.

Now, if they are informed of the real state of the case, that they are here only on sufferance; that I neither wished nor want them; and that I have been imposed upon by their scoundrel of a father, I may keep them at the other end of the bungalow, and not be annoyed with their company; until, upon plea of bad health, or some other excuse, I can pay their passage back again." "Could you not state these facts yourself, sir ?" "No, I never meddle with women; besides, it is better that they should know it before they come here.