Now you have a definite motive and purpose, and--pardon me, Stella--they are misleading him.

He would not continue his attentions an hour, did he believe they were utterly hopeless.

To Arnault and all others you appear undecided between him and myself.

Such an experiment as you are trying cannot work well.

If he has any other power beyond that of your maidenly preference, he will not hesitate to increase it, and may make your father more utterly dependent upon him while appearing helpful." "Yes; I have thought of that," she said, musingly.
"There seems to me but one straightforward, high-toned thing for you to do, Stella, and that is to follow your heart." He was almost frightened at himself that he spoke with so little eagerness and longing.