Opposition inflamed Molo and he bid Turpio up till his business instincts all but overcame his doting affection for Xantha.

But Xantha liked Molo less and less the more she saw of him.

She begged Turpio not to sell her to Molo.
He was obdurate, although Molo bid on up till he was offering a really fabulous price, though one well within his means.

He could not credit that Turpio would not yield.

When he was convinced that he could not wheedle him he lost his temper.