“I have never doubted that, Mr. Wrayburn,” said Lizzie; the more repentant, the less he claimed.

“I am very glad to hear it. Though if you had quite understood my whole meaning at first, I think you would not have refused. Do you think you would?”

“I⁠—don’t know that I should, Mr. Wrayburn.”

“Well! Then why refuse now you do understand it?”

“It’s not easy for me to talk to you,” returned Lizzie, in some confusion, “for you see all the consequences of what I say, as soon as I say it.”

“Take all the consequences,” laughed Eugene, “and take away my disappointment. Lizzie Hexam, as I truly respect you, and as I am your friend and a poor devil of a gentleman, I protest I don’t even now understand why you hesitate.”