Her mother acknowledges that much at least,--and, curse her, without shame!" "I am quite well aware of the fact, Braden," said the old man.

"You couldn't expect her to love me, could you ?" "Then, why in God's name are you marrying her?
Why are you spoiling my life?
Why are you--" "Is it spoiling your life to have the girl you love turn to and marry an old wreck such as I am, just because I happen to be willing to pay her two million dollars,--in advance, you might say?
Is that spoiling your life or saving it ?" Mr.Thorpe had dropped the cynical, half-amused air, and was now speaking with great intensity.

Braden, struck by the change, turned suddenly to regard the old man with a new and puzzled light in his lowering eyes.
"See here, my lad, you've had your chance.

I knew what I was about when I sent you to see her.

I knew precisely what would happen.