She knew she ought to shake it off, but the pressure of it was too welcome.

They strolled on.
'I had my talk with father last night.

I told him he was absurd, and I was my own master.

That you were perfectly free to give me up--that I had begged you to consider it--but I didn't think you would,' he smiled down upon her, but more gravely; 'and failing dismissal from you, we should be married as soon as it was reasonably possible.

Was that right, darling ?' She evaded the question.
'Well--and then ?' 'Then he broke out.