Page:William Le Queux - The Temptress.djvu/65

50 "I'm glad you admit the inefficacy of your attempt to bounce me," she continued. "I can suggest but one thing, namely, that we resolve to preserve our compact of secrecy."

"At the cost of my friend's happiness?"

"At any risk. But let me first assure you that Hugh's happiness will not be jeopardized by the adoption of this course."

"There will be no—er—danger, I suppose?"

"What do you mean?"

"Men die sometimes."

"I don't understand your insinuation. I confess I love him, so it is scarcely probable that any harm will befall him if it is in my power to prevent it."

He thrust his hands deep into his pockets and frowned. Then he exclaimed decisively:

"Your words have no effect upon me. I am determined he shall judge you in your true light."

She glanced at him in anxious surprise, for, truth to tell, she was unprepared for this bold reply. She hesitated whether she should change her tactics, as she was well acquainted with his obdurate nature, and in her heart feared to lose the man whose tender passion she half reciprocated. But her quick, impetuous character quickly asserted itself, and attained the mastery.

"You—you blighted my life!" she cried in a towering rage, her face blanched with passion. "And even now, when I have an opportunity, you debar me from atoning for the past, and becoming an honest woman! I am not such a blind fool, however, as to bow calmly to your tyranny. I have already sacrificed too much, so I give you but one chance to save yourself."

"To save myself. Bah! you are talking nonsense."

"No, believe me, I'm not," she declared, her dark eyes flashing with anger. "Either you give your