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314 And Gordon is—well—sort of my stepson, isn’t he? I really want him to be happy.

[Then smiling good-naturedly]

All the same, I can’t help hoping he’ll be beaten in this race. As an oarsman he recalls his father, Gordon Shaw, to me.

[He turns away and raises his glasses, going back to the rail. slumps down in her chair again]

Damn! They all look even from here! Can you tell which is which, Madeline?

No—not yet—oh, dear, this is awful! Gordon!

[Looking about her in the air—with a dazed question]

Gordon?

[Thinking]

Damn that Darrell! if he hadn’t interfered Nina would have told something of infinite importance, I know!

[He comes and again sits on the deck by her chair and takes her hand]

Because what, Nina—my dear little Nina Cara Nina—because what? Let me help you!

[Staring before her as if she were in a trance—simply, like a young girl]