We go west. Otherwise--I have warned you, monsieur."
I seized her wrist, and made her meet my look. "That is a coward's
threat," I said contemptuously.
I could not daunt her. "I mean it. I mean it, monsieur," she repeated
quietly.
I stood and looked at her. "You have a man's equity," I said. "You
are determined to give me my chance. Well, I will take it,--and
remember that you gave it to me. But, would you have me in any way
weaken my purpose, mademoiselle?"
She looked up with a flash of anger. "Am I a child or an intriguing
woman? No, no. Do your best, or your worst, or I shall despise you
for your weakness. I have told you that I have scant hopes for your
success, monsieur."
What could I say? I stood before her awkwardly. "Mademoiselle, may I
tell you something of myself and my people? You should know what sort
of name you are to bear."
But she pressed her hands outward. "No, no!" she cried. "Why tell
me?" Then she sobered. "I know that you are brave and kind," she
said, with her eyes down. "Beyond that--I do not think that I am
interested, monsieur."
I felt angered. "You should be interested," I said bluntly. "Well,
the night is slipping away.
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