You will never make those twelve men happier than they now are." "You don't understand it, my dear girl," said he, smoothing her hair with his hand.
"I do understand it, John.

I understand that this is a chimera,--a dream that you have got.

I know well that no duty can require you to do this mad--this suicidal thing.

I know you love Eleanor Harding with all your heart, and I tell you now that she loves you as well.
If there was a plain, a positive duty before you, I would be the last to bid you neglect it for any woman's love; but this--; oh, think again, before you do anything to make it necessary that you and Mr Harding should be at variance." He did not answer, as she knelt there, leaning on his knees, but by his face she thought that he was inclined to yield.

"At any rate let me say that you will go to this party.