"Why?"
Troy was about to utter something hastily; he then checked himself and said, "I am too poor." His voice was changed. Previously it had had a devil-may-care tone. It was the voice of a trickster now.
Boldwood's present mood was not critical enough to notice tones. He continued, "I may as well speak plainly; and understand, I don't wish to enter into the questions of right or wrong, woman's honour and shame, or to express any opinion on your conduct. I intend a business transaction with you."
"I see," said Troy. "Suppose we sit down here."
An old tree trunk lay under the hedge immediately opposite, and they sat down.
"I was engaged to be married to Miss Everdene," said Boldwood, "but you came and———"
"Not engaged," said Troy.
"As good as engaged."
"If I had not turned up she might have become engaged to you."
"Hang might!"
"Would, then."
"If you had not come I should certainly—yes, certainly—have been accepted by this time. If you had not seen her you might have been
