Irish priests have been made by chroniclers of Irish story to do marvellous things; and Fred Neville thought that this priest, if only the matter could be properly introduced, might be persuaded to do for him something romantic, something marvellous, perhaps something almost lawless.

In truth it might have been difficult to find a man more practical or more honest than Mr.Marty.And then the difficulty of introducing the subject was very great.

Neville stood with his face a little averted, rubbing his forehead as he raised his sailor's hat.

"If you could only read my heart," he said, "you'd know that I am as true as steel." "I'd be lothe to doubt it, Mr.Neville." "I'd give up everything to call Kate my own." "But you need give up nothing, and yet have her all your own." "You say that because you don't completely understand.

It may as well be taken for granted at once that she can never be Countess of Scroope." "Taken for granted!" said the old man as the fire flashed out of his eyes.
"Just listen to me for one moment.