"So are the facts." "Well," said Alton grimly, "the latter are of the most importance, but I think you should hear me." "There is," said Miss Townshead, "no reason why I should.

You made me a promise--why I do not know, any more than I do why I allowed you--but I was very anxious just then.

No doubt you spoke on impulse, and afterwards regretted it." "My daughter was a trifle injudicious," said Townshead.
Alton made a last endeavour.

"I know what you must think of me, and it hurts," he said.

"Still, that is a little thing." The girl checked him by a gesture, and the man stopped with his meaning unexpressed.