"
"I understand, perfectly, Sophy," he said, after a pause. "And now,
may I ask you one or two plain questions, please?"
"I think you may."
"You never cared for Geddes?"
"Good heavens, no! Besides, he--"
"Wants Alicia? That's obvious. But what about The Author? I'm not
enamored of him, myself, but he's an immensely able and clever man.
How many brilliant social lights would be willing to shine at the
head of his table! What are you going to do about The Author,
Sophy?"
"What are _you_ going to do about the lady you are really in love
with?" I countered.
"I'm waiting to find out," said he, coolly. "Answer my question,
please: Do you imagine you love him, Sophy?"
"It is not unpleasant to me that he should wish me to do so," I
admitted.
"I see. You are trying to persuade yourself that you should accept
him."
"I am not growing younger," I said, with an effort. "Remember, too,
that Alicia will be leaving me presently, and I shall then be
utterly alone. That is not a pleasing prospect--not to a woman."
"Nor to a man, either, but better that than a loveless marriage." He
reflected for a moment. "If you are sure you care for the man, tell
him truthfully every incident of last night.
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