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132 and mentally declare that you would have acted far differently.

Women so often start in as plaintiffs and end as defendants in their controversies with the other sex.

"I mean it," I managed to say in a low voice.

"You would ruin my reputation," he began in a grieved tone. Unpardonably selfish as the remark was, it made just the impression upon me that he probably intended it should do.

"How can you say it?" I asked. "Arthur, listen to me. I love you, and I begin to think that I love you too well. If I did not care for you, I should be glad when you absented yourself from me, but—but—as it is—it—breaks m-my heart."

I was going to give way. I felt quite sure of that.

"Don't, Elsie," said Arthur, hastily. "Don't. I cannot stand scenes. I want you to be happy I would not for the world see you in such dis tressdistress [sic], but—"

"But, what—"

"Nothing. Elsie, let us go for a long walk