"
"Yes, to preserve your rights," she retorted.
"I am afraid," he sighed, "that you haven't a very high opinion of
me."
"It is within your power to make me look upon you as the bravest,
the kindest, the most farseeing of men," she declared.
He shook his head.
"I decline to think that you would think any the better of me for
committing a dishonourable action for your sake."
"Try me," she begged, her hand resting once more upon his. "If
you want my kind feelings, my everlasting gratitude, they are
yours. Give me that packet."
"That is impossible," he declared uncompromisingly. "If you wish
to alter my attitude with regard to it, you must tell me exactly
from whom it comes, what it contains, and to whom it goes."
"You ask more than is possible.. You make me almost sorry--"
"Sorry for what?"
"Sorry that I saved your life," she said boldly. "Why should I
not be? There are many who will suffer, many who will lose their
lives because of your obstinacy."
"If you believe that, confide in me."
She shook her head sadly.
"If only you were different!"
"I am a human being," he protested. "I have sympathies and heart.
I would give my life willingly to save any carnage."
"I could never make you understand," she murmured hopelessly. "I
shall not try. I dare not risk failure. Is this room hot, or is
it my fancy? Could we have a window open?"
"By all means."
He crossed the room and lifted the blind from before one of the
high windows which opened seawards.
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