time. But to accept me because another man's defection
had piqued your vanity, . . . God knows how you could dare to do it!
I see now why you found me unlike an ordinary lover. No doubt that
other fellow--curse him--took full advantage of his privileged
position: while to me you seemed a thing so sacred that I hardly dared
lay a hand on you. I might have known that a man who is fool enough to
put a woman on a pedestal, is bound to pay a long price for his folly."

He was lashing himself more mercilessly than he lashed her: and in the
torment of his spirit he did not pause to consider the possible effect
of his words on a recklessly impulsive woman.

"Really . . . you are insufferable!" she retorted, her breath coming
short and quick. "I have a little pride also; and you had better stop
before you push me too far. For I tell you frankly, I don't care
enough for you to stand this sort of treatment at your hands."

The counter-stroke stung like a lash. The lines about his mouth
hardened, and he straightened himself sharply.

"Pity you were not more frank with me twenty-four hours ago. Then we
might both have been spared this morning's ironical service. However,
the thing is done now. . . ."

"Indeed, it's not done!" she flashed out defiantly. "I have no notion
of being your wife on sufferance, I assure you. We are only on the
threshold as yet. We need not go a step farther unless we choose. And
after what you have said to me, . . . I do not choose."

For an instant the man was stunned into silence; then, in a desperate
impulse, took a step towards her.

"Quita, . . . you don't realise what you are saying? Nothing can alter
the fact that we are man and wife, now and always."

She motioned him from her with an imperious gesture.

"Don't touch me, please. I do realise, perfectly, that we are not free
to make any more dangerous experiments. But we are at least free to
live and work independently of one another. Of course I know that you
can compel me to remain with you,"--her colour deepened on the
words.--"But I know also that you have too much chivalry, too much
pride, to force yourself upon me against my wish."

"By God, yes!" he answered from between his teeth. "And . . . what is
your wish, may I ask?"

For the first time she hesitated, and lowered her eyes.

"I believe our wishes are identical," she said.

"No need to trouble about mine. You can put them out of court
altogether."

His