Page:The Tsar's Window.djvu/195

 "I was unkind as well as rude to you," he went on, never removing his gaze from the fire. "Forgive me! In future you shall not be reminded of this folly."

He came nearer and stood in front of me, saying, "You should be willing to forgive me for the disagreeable things I have said, when you remember how small a part I have in your life. Only a few weeks out of a lifetime! Even if I had power to make them all unhappy, it would be a small proportion to the happy weeks which some one more fortunate than I will give you. For I am sure that your heart will some day be more fully awakened than it is now. What does a girl of seventeen know of love? Believe me, there is a depth of devotion in your nature which has never been sounded. I am sorry" (walking back to the fireplace and speaking very sadly) "I am sorry that I made you cry." He added wistfully, after a moment, "I suppose I may go now?"

I walked over to where he stood in front of the fire, and looked up at him with a weak attempt at a smile.

"I want to ask you something," I said. "But you must promise not to be hurt or angry with me for asking the question."

"I promise," he replied gravely.

"Did you make a bet at the club that you would marry an heiress within six months?"

He grew white to his very lips, and, moving his hand impetuously, he swept poker and tongs to the floor with a great clatter.

Although I was certainly deeply in earnest, this little