divined in the very beginning--only to chide herself for the mere
thought--that thing was in his face and in his voice. Rachel made a
desperate attempt to change the subject, but, as will be seen, an
unlucky one.

"So I am supposed to be your daughter!" she exclaimed nervously. "May I
ask my new name?"

"If you like; but I am going to suggest to you a still newer name, Mrs.
Minchin."

Rachel tried to laugh, though his quietly determined and serious face
made it more than difficult.

"Do you mean that I am not to be your daughter any longer, Mr. Steel?"

"Not if I can help it. But it will depend upon yourself."

"And what do you want to make me now?"

"My wife!"




CHAPTER VIII

THE DOVE AND THE SERPENT