Page:The Novels and Tales of Henry James, Volume 1 (New York, Charles Scribner's Sons, 1907).djvu/535

 Of this again Rowland considered. "You really feel then on the way—?"

"Don't ask too much. I only know that she makes my heart beat, makes 'me see visions."

"You feel at least encouraged?"

"I feel excited."

"You 're really looking better," Rowland went on after a moment.

"I 'm glad to hear it. Now that I 've answered your questions, therefore, please give me the money."

Rowland shook his head. "For that dire purpose I can't!"

"You can't?"

"It's impossible. Your idea 's too great a folly. I can't help you to it."

Roderick flushed a little, and his eyes lighted. "I 'll borrow what money I can then from Mary!" This was not viciously said; it had simply the ring of passionate resolution.

Instantly it brought Rowland to terms. He took a bunch of keys from his pocket and tossed it upon the grass. "The little brass one opens my dressing-case. You 'll find money in it."

Roderick let the keys lie; something seemed to have struck him; he looked askance at his friend. "You 're awfully considerate of Mary!"

"You certainly are not. Your proposal 's an outrage."

"Very likely. It 's proof the more of my desire."

"If you've so much steam on, then, use it for something else! You say you 're awake again. I'm delighted to believe it; only be so in the best sense. 501