Stella, you know it." She uttered a sob that yet was half laughter.

"I have done my best," she said.

"Why are you so--so merciless ?" "You surrender ?" he said.
She gave herself to the drawing of his hands.

"Have I any choice ?" "Not if you are honest," he said.
"Ah!" She coloured rather painfully.

"I have at least been honest in trying to keep you from this--this big mistake.