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 complete conquest of my—my affections in something like two hours, Mr. Forbes?"

"Nearer an hour and a half, I'd say, Miss Burnett. No, I say nothing about making a complete conquest; perhaps I shall only succeed in losing what little ground I have; but it's a fighting chance and I'll take it. What do you say? Call it a sporting proposition, if you like; call it rank lunacy."

"And what—am I supposed to agree to? What am I to do?"

"Nothing except forget that you have known me only a day; give me the same standing as Smith; let me start even with him. Will you?"

"It sounds amusing," she said carelessly, "but—"

"You're not afraid?" he challenged.

"Afraid? Not the least bit, Mr. Forbes." She laughed softly and settled back in the corner. "Pray begin."

"Thanks." Wade gave a sigh, took a knee in his hands and faced her smilingly. "Whether I win or lose, Miss Burnett,