He knew that she did. It was one of the qualities which made her
valuable. "I believe that you are staying away to let me see how hard
it is to get along without you."

"It wouldn't be a bad idea, but that's not the reason. I am staying
because I like the case." She shifted the topic away from herself.

"People will say that Jean has played her cards well."

He blazed, "What do you mean, Hilda?"

"He has a great deal of money."

"What has that to do with it?"

Her smile was irritating. "Oh, I know you are not mercenary. But a
million or two won't come amiss in any girl's future--and two country
houses, and a house in town."

"You seem to know all about it."

"The General talks a lot--and anyhow, all the world knows it. It's no
secret."

"I rather think that Jean doesn't know it. I haven't told her. She
realizes that he is rich, but it doesn't seem to have made much
impression on her."

"Most people will think she is lucky to have caught him."