"Why, a lawyer just like you are--except that he has lots
to do and can never get away."

The remark hurt more than he cared to show. He changed
his method, and in a gentle, conciliating tone delivered the
following speech:--

"The whole thing is like a bad dream--so bad that it
cannot go on. If there was one redeeming feature about the
man I might be uneasy. As it is I can trust to time. For
the moment, Lilia, he has taken you in, but you will find
him out soon. It is not possible that you, a lady,
accustomed to ladies and gentlemen, will tolerate a man
whose position is--well, not equal to the son of the
servants' dentist in Coronation Place. I am not blaming you
now. But I blame the glamour of Italy--I have felt it
myself, you know--and I greatly blame Miss Abbott."

"Caroline! Why blame her? What's all this to do with Caroline?"

"Because we expected her to--" He saw that the answer
would involve him in difficulties, and, waving his hand,
continued, "So I am confident, and you in your heart agree,
that this engagement will not last. Think of your life at
home--think of Irma! And I'll also say think of us; for you
know, Lilia, that we count you more than a relation. I
should feel I was losing my own sister if you did this, and
my mother would lose a daughter."

She seemed touched at last, for she turned away her face