What singular, mysterious power had this girl acquired over him?
He, who had scoffed at the very idea of marriage only a few months before, now desired it ardently, anxiously! Yes, that was what his life lacked--such a woman to be his companion and helpmate! He loved her--there was no doubt of that.

His every thought, waking and sleeping, was of her, all his plans for the future included her.

He would win her if any man could.

But did she care for him?
Ah, that was the cruel, torturing uncertainty! She appeared cold and indifferent, but perhaps she was only trying him.

Certainly she did not seem to dislike him.
The waiter returned with the vermouth and the newspapers.