He would marry a girl out West somewhere, a girl of some small town, brought up somewhat as he had been brought up, not shocked by what Margaret Severance would regard as his vulgarities--a woman with whom he felt equal and at ease.

He would select such a woman, provided, in addition, with some fortune--several hundred thousands, at least, enough to make him independent.

Such had been his plan.

But now that he had seen Margaret, had come to appreciate her through studying her as a possible wife for his unattached friend Arkwright, now that he had discovered her secret, her love for him--how could he fit her into his career?
Was it possible?
Was it wise?
"The best is none too good for me," said he to himself swaggeringly.

No doubt about it--no, indeed, not the slightest.