But the next moment his poise came back.
"And after what I saw only to-day in the papers about Thomas Preston--! Don't you know you are this moment standing on a volcano ?" "Yes--but what of it ?" he answered cheerfully.

"It's the most diverting indoor or outdoor sport I've ever indulged in--dodging eruptions.

Besides, in standing on this volcano I have the advantage of also standing near you." "Didn't I tell you I never wanted to see you again!" she flamed at him.

"How dared you come here ?" "I had to come, dear." His voice was pleading, yet imperturbably pleasant.

"You refused to answer the letters I wrote you begging you to meet me somewhere to talk things over.