Page:"A modern Hercules", the tale of a sculptress (IA amodernherculest00wins).pdf/62

56 "And what is that to you? Are you her protector?"

Ouida approached, having from a distance observed that a clash had occurred between these two men.

"There comes the lady," said Paul; "let her answer."

"I am heartily ashamed of you both," said Ouida. "You have selected a most inappropriate place, as well as subject, for discussion."

The preacher looked ashamed of himself, but Paul, now thoroughly aroused, was almost bursting with defiance; but Ouida had him absolutely under control, and when she commanded him with decisive voice to bring her an ice, he went, submissive like a dog.

"And you, sir," turning to the preacher, "what right have you to give way to vulgar differences with Paul?"

"I have no excuse to offer, save my adoration of yourself," said he, humbly.

"Why vex your soul?" said she filling up with wondrous pity for the man. "Your torment of yourself is useless. I am further from you today than ever before."

"How is this, madam? Is there absolutely no hope for me?"

"None, sir. The barrier between us can never be broken."

"And what is that barrier?" he said, a mighty despair getting its grasp upon him, for he noted the deadly earnestness of her speech.

"The obstacle is Paul," she confessed.

"Your big-limbed model?" He would not believe it.

"Even so," said the woman, as she bowed her head.

"And how is he in my way? Would you stoop to him?"

"Stoop, sir," she said, her pride returning, "I have sworn to marry him."