Suddenly the girl had become quiet, rapt in some new thought. In
another minute she placed her hand lightly upon Paul's shoulder, and
said:

"Remember, you have promised!"

"I have promised," answered Paul. "Is there anything more?"

"Yes," said Dorothy.

She paused for a minute, as if what she were about to say was a great
effort.

"Well," he continued, "after I have got you safely away--which, by
the by, does not seem such a difficult task, as no one opposes your
going--but, after we have escaped together, what further am I to do?"

"Naturally, I feel great delicacy in what I am about to say," said
Dorothy; "but since you have told me that you love me, it does not
seem so hard, although you do not know who or what I am--but, to
be candid and frank with you, dear Paul, after you have gotten me
away--why, you must marry me!"

Paul snatched her up in his arms.

"My darling!" he said, "you are making me the proudest man on earth!"

"Do not speak too soon," said Dorothy, releasing herself from his
grasp. "Remember I have told you frankly that you do not know me.
Perhaps I am driving a hard bargain with you!"