It had ceased to count, so that she only wrenched from him this one great boon.
And Rufus must have realised the fact, for he stood up sharply and backed against the door, releasing her.
"You don't know what you're saying," he said gruffly.
"I do--I do!" With anguished reiteration she answered him.

"I'm not the sort that offers and then doesn't pay.

Oh, don't waste time talking! Every moment may be his last.

Go down--go down to the shore! You're so strong.

Save him--save him!" She beat her clasped hands against his broad chest, till abruptly he put up his own again and held them still.
"Columbine!" For the second time he uttered her name, and for the second time the command in his voice caught and compelled her.