one's husband! And then when he wanted me to consider about my
children, why then I told him"--and her voice grew passionate again--
"the more I considered, the worse it would be for him, as if I would
have my boys know me without their father's name; and, besides, he
had not been so kind to you that I should wish to let him have
anything to do with them! I am afraid I ought not to have said
that," she added, returning to something of her meek softness; "but
indeed I was so angry, I did not know what I was about. I hope it
will not make him angry with you."

"Never mind me," said Colonel Keith, kindly. "Indeed, Lady Temple,
it is a wonderful compliment to you that he should have been ready to
undertake such a family."

"I don't want such compliments! And, oh!" and here her eyes widened
with fright, "what shall I do? He only said my feelings did me
honour, and he would be patient and convince me. Oh, Colonel Keith,
what shall I do?" and she looked almost afraid that fate and
perseverance would master her after all, and that she should be
married against her will.

"You need do nothing but go on your own way, and persist in your
refusal," he said in the calm voice that always reassured her.

"Oh, but pray, pray never let him speak to me about it again!"

"Not if I can help it, and I will do my best. You are quite right,
Lady Temple. I do not think it would be at all advisable for
yourself or the children, and hardly for himself," he added, smiling.
"I think the mischief must all have been done by that game at whist."