What are you doing to-night, Stella?
Will you dine with me ?" She shook her head.
"Not to-night, Norris," she said.

"I have something else to do; but before I go I want you to answer me a question.

Once before, when my father had you in a corner, I helped you out, and you know the price I paid." He leaned toward her, but she waved him away.
"No!" she said, "I am not reminding you of that because I want anything from you, but listen.

Supposing I could help you out again?
Supposing I could give you something for your paper which would produce the greatest sensation which New York has ever known?
Would you promise to realize at any loss, and give it up?
Leave America altogether and go to Europe ?" "Yes!" he said, "I think I would promise that." She rose to her feet.

He approached her a little hesitatingly, but she waved him back.
"No, don't kiss me, Norris," she said.
He protested, but she still drew herself away.
"My dear Norris," she said, "please do not think because I show some interest in your affairs, that you are forced to offer me this sort of payment.