He is a very proud man.

His estates are involved, and in our first few days of happiness we did indeed discuss the means of freeing them, whilst our marriage contract stipulates that in the event of either of us predeceasing the other, and there being no children, the survivor inherits.

But all at once a cloud came between us, and Giovanni has curtly declined any assistance by me in discharging his family debt." Brett could not help remembering Capella's passionate declaration to Helen, but Margaret's words read a new meaning into it.

Possibly the Italian was only making a forlorn hope attack on a country maiden's natural desire to shine amidst her friends.

Well, time would tell.
Meanwhile, Mrs.Capella's outburst of confidence was valuable.
"A cloud!" he said.