The statement that Arthur was engaged to marry Louise Merrick drove her to a wild anger no less powerful because she restrained any appearance of it.

Surveying her cousin steadily through her veiled lashes she asked: "Is there no way we can prevent this thing ?" Mershone stalked up and down before her like a caged beast.

His eyes were red and wicked; his lips were pressed tightly together.

"Diana," said he, "I've never wanted anything in this world as I want that girl.
I can't let that mollycoddle marry her!" She flushed, and then frowned.

It was not pleasant to hear the man of her choice spoken of with such contempt, but after all their disappointment and desires were alike mutual and she could not break with Charlie at this juncture.
Suddenly he paused and asked: "Do you still own that country home near East Orange ?" "Yes; but we never occupy it now.